Software for Ophthalmology Clinics: What You Need and What They're Not Telling You

Ophthalmology clinics have technology needs that generic software doesn't cover. They handle specialized diagnostic images (OCT, perimetry, topography, retinal photography), require integration with brand-specific equipment, and need clinical workflows different from a general clinic.

However, most solutions available in Latin America are either too generic (they don't understand ophthalmology) or too expensive (niche solutions with inflated prices).

What an ophthalmology clinic really needs

Ophthalmic image management

Ophthalmology is one of the most image-intensive specialties. A typical patient can generate:

The problem: Many ophthalmology devices use proprietary formats. A generic PACS may not handle all these formats correctly.

The solution: A PACS that supports both standard DICOM and non-DICOM image import, allowing organized association with the patient.

Ophthalmic medical record

The ophthalmology medical record requires specific fields that a generic HIS doesn't include:

• Visual acuity (OD, OS, both eyes) corrected and uncorrected
• Intraocular pressure (IOP) with measurement method
• Refraction (sphere, cylinder, axis)
• Fundoscopy with graphic diagram
• Biomicroscopy structured
• ICD-10 diagnoses specific to ophthalmology

Equipment integration

Common ophthalmology equipment in Latin America:

The key is that your PACS supports DICOM Worklist to send worklists to equipment and DICOM Storage to receive images automatically.

Surgical workflow

If your clinic performs surgeries (cataract, refractive, retinal), you need:

• Surgical planning with IOL calculation
• Digital informed consent
• Structured operative report
• Post-surgical follow-up

Common mistakes when choosing ophthalmology software

1. Buying a generic system and expecting it to adapt

An HIS designed for general medicine doesn't have refraction fields, IOP, or fundoscopy diagrams. Customizing it costs more than buying an adequate one.

2. Buying a niche system that doesn't integrate

A software "only for ophthalmology" that doesn't connect with your PACS, lab, or billing creates information silos.

3. Not verifying equipment compatibility before buying

Test DICOM integration with your specific equipment before signing a contract.

4. Ignoring the patient portal

Ophthalmology patients need access to their images and reports. A patient portal reduces calls and improves experience.

Frequently asked questions

Can I use a generic PACS for ophthalmology?

Yes, as long as it supports your equipment's image formats. Davix PACS supports standard DICOM and allows non-DICOM image import.

Do I need a different system for each device?

No. With a centralized PACS and DICOM Worklist, all your devices send images to one place.

Can I integrate the PACS with my current medical record system?

Yes, via HL7 or FHIR standards. If both systems are from Davix, integration is native.

How much does a complete ophthalmology system cost?

With Davix, you can start with just PACS/RIS and add HIS later. No implementation fees or hidden costs.

Conclusion

Ophthalmology clinics need software that understands their specialty:

• Image management supporting OCT, perimetry, topography, and retinal photography.
• Medical records with ophthalmology-specific fields (VA, IOP, refraction).
• Equipment integration via DICOM Worklist and Storage.
• Don't buy generic expecting it to adapt. Don't buy niche that doesn't integrate either.
• Davix combines specialized PACS with HIS configurable for any specialty.

Check Davix pricing or schedule a demo to see how it works for ophthalmology.