Smartphones for Smarter Vision

Abstract

Background: The rapid evolution of smartphones has revolutionized healthcare delivery and medical education. Ophthalmology, being a visually intensive specialty, has particularly benefited from mobile technology through apps, imaging tools, and instant access to resources. Smartphones are now playing a vital role in diagnostics, documentation, and communication, helping practitioners enhance patient care and academic collaboration.

Objective: This study aims to evaluate the use of smartphones for academic and clinical purposes among ophthalmologists.

Methodology: A cross-sectional survey was conducted from June to December 2023 in the Department of Ophthalmology at Sheikh Zayed Hospital. The study involved 100 ophthalmologists, including consultants, postgraduate residents, and registrars from various hospitals. A structured questionnaire was distributed via emails, messaging apps, and phone interviews. Data were analyzed using SPSS version 25.

Results: Of the 100 respondents, 50% were consultants, 44% were postgraduate residents, and 6% were registrars. Android phones were used by 55% of participants, while 45% used iPhones. The flashlight feature was frequently used by 18%, occasionally used by 40%, and never used by 42%. Camera usage for documenting ocular findings was frequent among 26%, occasional in 49%, and never in 25% of participants. About 28% did not have any books downloaded on their phones, while 52% had multiple books. Google was the most used online resource (76%), followed by Eyewiki (9%) and PubMed (5%). Notably, 78% of respondents used messaging platforms for group discussions.

Conclusion: Smartphones are becoming indispensable tools in ophthalmology. They offer cost-effective solutions by replacing several traditional tools and improving efficiency in clinical practice. Ophthalmologists should further explore these technologies for both educational and clinical advancements