A randomised controlled trial on the effect of a virtual three-dimensional eye model on patient satisfaction

Abstract

Clinical relevance: Patients forget up to 80% of verbal communication. Visual aids improve understanding and information retention. A virtual, three-dimensional, interactive eye model (the One Right Eye model) is a new tool for eye care providers. The utility of three-dimensional models has been studied in other specialities, but never in ophthalmology.

Background: This study investigates whether the One Right Eye model improves patient satisfaction and understanding during ophthalmic outpatient appointments.

Methods: In a single-centre, open-label, randomised controlled trial, 92 patients were divided into two groups: a control group receiving a standard face-to-face consultation (n = 45) or an interventional group receiving the same consultation supplemented with a virtual eye model demonstration (n = 47). Key outcomes included patient satisfaction, understanding of their ocular condition, and rating of their explanation from their doctor.

Results: The interventional group rated their explanation from their doctor statistically significantly higher than the control group (89% versus 69% 'very good', p = 0.03). Trends also indicated improved understanding (81% versus 62%, 'completely understood', p = 0.05) and greater satisfaction (83% versus 69% 'very satisfied', p = 0.12) in the interventional group compared to controls. While the latter two results did not reach statistical significance, the data suggest clinical improvements.

Conclusion: The virtual three-dimensional eye model improved patients' perception of their explanation from their doctor and likely improved patient satisfaction and understanding of their ophthalmic condition. The One Right Eye, a virtual eyeball model, shows promise to enhance ophthalmic communication.

Keywords: Ophthalmology; patient communication; patient satisfaction; randomised controlled trial; three-dimensional model.