An optometrist in NSW has recently started using a new OCT device and is impressed with the speed and the quality of its imaging.
Speed, simplicity and patient comfort are often talked about in abstract terms when it comes to diagnostic technology.
But for optometrists working in busy, community-based practices, those factors can directly shape clinical decision-making, workflow, and ultimately patient experience.
That has been the case for Julie Nguyen, an optometrist working across four practices operated by Lake and Valley Optical and Port Stephens Optical in New South Wales, following the installation of the new Optovue AutoFusion OCT at the group’s Huntlee location.
Nguyen is quick to point to the device’s speed as its defining feature.
“Out of all our four stores, this is probably the quickest OCT we’ve got,” she says. “It captures pictures quickly and efficiently. Even when multiple scans are required, it obtains them consecutively at impressive speed.”
That pace is not just a matter of convenience. According to Nguyen, it directly improves both clinical efficiency and patient comfort.
“Speed is important for me, especially given the demographic here, where patients are usually older,” she explains. “You don’t want them having to keep their head in that unnatural position for too long when capturing retinal images.”
She adds that the device’s ability to capture images even when patients blink has proven particularly valuable.
“It’s able to capture images precisely when the patient’s eyes are open, instead of us having to count them down. Especially for patients with dry eye or those who tend to blink frequently, it’s really efficient. That’s probably its biggest advantage compared to other models.”
The result is a smoother experience in the consulting room. “It definitely makes things better clinically,” Nguyen says. “Because it’s quicker, the process is more comfortable for patients. And when you combine that with good technology, it builds confidence and trust.”
A diverse practice environment
Nguyen works across four practices located in Boolaroo, Huntlee, Medowie and Tanilba Bay, rotating between sites as part of a team of four optometrists supported by about 20 dispensers and other staff.
The practices are owned by Tania and Wayne Puxty and serve a broad patient base spanning both coastal and inland communities.
“In Port Stephens, we generally see retired patients, while in the Hunter Valley areas like Huntlee and Boolaroo, it’s a younger demographic – families, working individuals and elderly patients still living independently.”
This mix brings with it a wide range of clinical presentations, from age-related eye disease to more routine refractive care.
As a result, imaging plays a central role across all sites, with each practice equipped with OCT and visual field technology.
The decision to upgrade at Huntlee was driven by both clinical and practical considerations.
“The fundus camera at Huntlee was our oldest model,” Nguyen explains. “We take fundus photos for all of our patients, so upgrading that was our priority. The AutoFusion gave us that dual approach – it’s essentially a two-in-one system.”
Familiarity with the Optovue platform also played a role. “We already had an older version of the same brand in another practice, and we really liked it. So it was something we were comfortable with and trusted.”
Distributed in Australia by BOC Instruments, the AutoFusion is positioned as an automated dual-modality system, combining OCT imaging with a 12MP true-colour fundus camera.
The system is designed for streamlined operation, with automated alignment, focusing, tracking and capture via a single touch interface.
The unit incorporates a compact design with an integrated Windows 11 PC and tiltable touchscreen, enabling straightforward integration into clinical environments.
Its 3D auto-tracking capability supports consistent image acquisition, while a range of scan options – including wide line, radial, cross and anterior segment imaging – are said to provide flexibility across different clinical needs.
From a diagnostic perspective, the device offers comprehensive analysis tools covering retinal, glaucoma, anterior segment and pachymetry assessments.
For example, a single wide 3D scan can deliver optic nerve, ganglion cell complex (GCC) and macular analysis, while additional features such as Retinal Nerve Fibre Layer (RNFL) trend analysis support longitudinal monitoring.
For Nguyen, these capabilities translate into practical clinical advantages.
“What I particularly like is the ability to customise how images are viewed,” she says.
“You can switch between greyscale, colour, or even negative scans. For fundus photos, you can apply red-free imaging and adjust the brightness.
“That’s especially helpful when you’re trying to detect subtle features like haemorrhages or pathology.”
She notes that this flexibility makes it harder to overlook abnormalities.
Workflow, training and impact
In day-to-day practice, the AutoFusion has slotted into an established workflow with minimal disruption. Patients typically undergo autorefraction before fundus imaging, with OCT scans performed where clinically indicated.
“If anything notable is seen, I’d advise bringing them in for an additional OCT scan to assess the layers and structures of the retina in greater detail.”
While the device’s speed could theoretically support higher patient throughput, Nguyen says that is not the primary goal for the practice.
“It’s more about leveraging that efficiency to spend more time with patients and undertake further testing when needed.”
That shift has practical implications. “It makes it easier to conduct additional scans,” she says.
Training on the new Optovue device has also been straightforward. It was quite self-explanatory,” Nguyen says. “The instruction manual is straightforward. You enter the patient’s information, and it’s very easy to capture and upload images.”
The practice began using the device almost immediately after installation, particularly for fundus imaging, which is performed on every patient.
Beyond clinical efficiency, Nguyen sees the AutoFusion as a valuable communication tool. High-quality imaging allows practitioners to visually demonstrate findings to patients, reinforcing understanding and trust.
“It helps us show patients exactly what’s going on with their eyes,” she says. “It’s hard to explain eye conditions without a good image to pinpoint specific features. When you can show them, they really engage with their eye health.”
That visual element also supports longitudinal care. “You can show patients how things have changed, which is powerful for on-going care.”
Looking ahead, she expects the device to play an increasingly central role in both diagnosis and record-keeping. “It supports clinical findings while also capturing them in high detail,” she says. “And because it’s so quick, there’s really no barrier to using it.”
Nguyen is happy to recommend the device to others. She believes the combination of speed and image quality is key.
“It’s fast, it’s easy to use, and it provides quality information about the patient’s eye health,” she says. “And from a patient perspective, that comfort and efficiency can make a real difference.”
For practices weighing up investment in new imaging technology, Nguyen’s experience perhaps points to a broader shift in expectations – where automation, integration and usability are core requirements – and no longer optional extras.
“It’s definitely an advancement that’s worth investing in,” she says.
The Optovue AutoFusion OCT is supplied by BOC Instruments. Those keen to know more can email sales@bocinstruments.com or phone 1800804331.
