Bringing Eye Care Closer to the People Who Need It

For many people, protecting vision starts with early detection. But access to timely eye care is not always simple. Transportation limitations, high costs and a shortage of trained eye care providers can all contribute to delayed diagnoses and preventable vision loss, particularly in rural and underserved communities. 

Envision Research Institute (ERI) is helping address these challenges through the development and evaluation of a portable ophthalmic device designed to extend diagnostic capabilities beyond traditional clinical settings. 

In collaboration with Wichita State University and Vision Products LLC, ERI is advancing a durable, highly portable eye care device capable of supporting comprehensive eye examinations in resource-limited environments. The device combines slit-lamp and ophthalmoscope technology into a single patented system, allowing clinicians to capture diagnostic-quality images during a full eye exam. Researchers are also designing the device to withstand rugged environments and function outdoors, expanding its usability beyond traditional clinics. 

The goal is to bring eye care directly to people who may otherwise face barriers to access. For individuals who are blind or have low vision, transportation to specialty clinics can be difficult. The challenge is even greater in rural or remote communities where ophthalmologists may not be readily available. 

The portable device is being developed with telemedicine in mind, allowing trained non-eye-care professionals to capture images that can then be reviewed remotely by ophthalmologists. This approach could help extend the reach of limited eye care specialists without requiring them to travel long distances. 

According to the World Health Organization, at least 2.2 billion people globally were living with visual impairment in 2019, with nearly half of those cases considered preventable or untreated. Early access to eye care has consistently been linked to better outcomes, particularly for conditions such as glaucoma, ocular trauma and other progressive eye diseases. By enabling earlier evaluations and faster referrals, researchers believe the technology could help reduce delays in treatment that may otherwise lead to preventable vision loss. 

The project is currently in development with a working prototype already in place. Collaboration has been central to the effort. Vision Products LLC developed the original patent and concept for the device, while Wichita State University is providing engineering support through the National Institute for Aviation Research, along with additional expertise from the College of Health Professions. 

“Rehabilitation is crucial, but blindness prevention is the best outcome for both the patient and the systems that provide eye care,” said Dr. Jeremy Barton. “This device helps people get the care they need earlier and has the potential to save vision.” 

The research also reflects ERI’s broader mission of pursuing practical solutions that improve accessibility and quality of care for people who are blind or have low vision. Beyond remote and underserved settings, researchers believe the device could also improve accessibility within traditional clinics by making examinations more adaptable for patients with disabilities who may struggle with conventional equipment. 

The project includes team members Dr. Sarika Gopalkrishnan and Dr. Jeremy Barton.