Caution urged over vision testing apps

Vision testing apps for children need robust assessment according to the Royal College of Ophthalmologists and the British & Irish Orthoptic Society.

The bodies noted that technology can help hospital eye services that currently have limited capacity due to the pandemic.

However, it added that the technology does not always allow for accurate testing of vision and there is a lack of evidence for their use in all age groups.

Susmito Biswas, consultant paediatric ophthalmologist and chair of the College’s paediatric sub-committee, said: ‘I strongly recommend that the use of novel technology is very carefully assessed and parents advised appropriately of the potential risks and benefits. If there is any significant doubt about the reliability of test result then a face to face consultation may be required.’