From the Press Release
Undetected vision disorders may be a silent epidemic impacting children and could affect their ability to learn, and in some cases result in permanent visual loss. Identifying children with vision problems is essential. Though almost all children receive screenings, traditional vision screening methods haven't changed significantly in more than 100 years. A lack of a sufficient number of skilled personnel to administer millions of screenings may result in some children being overlooked.
In response to what some are calling a public health dilemma, children's eye surgeon James O'Neil, M.D. and technology developer Richard Tirendi created EyeSpy 20/20. EyeSpy 20/20 is a video game that takes a child on a virtual treasure hunt during which they may wear eye patches or a pair of colored glasses. Designed to make the vision screenings fun, it uses intelligent software protocols that measure the child's responses to customize the testing in real time. The result is a vision screening assessment that mimics the results of a trained specialist even when administered by a parent or untrained volunteers.
Compared to an 1862 eye chart, this technology features:
- Video matching game format to test for distance acuity where kids can't cheat;
- Computerized stereogram (covering depth perception);
- A single system that screens distance acuity and depth perception, testing for all of the most prevalent and severe vision disorders;
- Randomization of optotypes eliminates memorization;
- Minimal training required and limited proctor involvement, without compromising accuracy;
- Independent scientific validation by Medical University of South Carolina's world-renowned;
- Computerization of data collection and reporting saves significant staff administration time;
- Can be used successfully with many special needs populations.
Unlike the old-fashioned Eye Chart, which was established in 1862 and requires a highly trained professional to properly administer the test, EyeSpy 20/20 does not require in-depth training to administrator.
EyeSpy 20/20 was created as a technology to overcome the shortcomings of the traditional vision screening wall chart developed back in 1862, such as children having the tendency to peak through their fingers, memorize the chart of guess the letters and numbers when they cannot see. The technology is more sophisticated while cost-effective, and the kids like it because it is a fun game and not a test.