WO2021177968A1

WO2021177968A1 - Vision testing and treatment system and method

Info

Publication number: WO2021177968A1
Application number: PCT/US2020/021267
Authority: WO
Inventors: Marshall T. Masko; John C. VELURE; Blair P. Mowery; Charles A. Lemaire
Original assignee: I-Lumen Scientific, Inc.
Priority date: 2020-03-05
Filing date: 2020-03-05
Publication date: 2021-09-10

Abstract

A system and method for testing an aspect of a visual perception of a patient. In some embodiments, the test is for vision problems due to age-related macular degeneration (AMD). The system outputs a transient light pattern to an eye of a patient; a response unit that receives a perception indication by the patient of the light pattern; and an assessment module that: performs a first vision analysis of the eye at a first time to produce a first vision-characteristic result, performs the first vision analysis on the eye at a second time to produce a second vision-characteristic result, wherein the assessment module is further configured to store the first and second vision-characteristic results, wherein the assessment module is further configured to perform a comparison between the first and second vision-characteristic results, and output a message based at least in part on the comparison.

Description

TITLE OF THE INVENTION:

VISION TESTING AND TREATMENT SYSTEM AND METHOD

FIELD OF THE INVENTION

[0001] The present invention relates generally to testing the vision of a patient, and in particular, to systems and methods for monitoring vision characteristics of a patient and analyzing the results of the monitoring to determine, for example, whether a medical treatment for the patient needs to be continued and/or altered.

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION

[0002] U.S. Patent 8,888,288 issued to Iravani et al. on November 18, 2014 with the title

“Method and system for self-administering a visual examination using a mobile computing device,” and is incorporated herein by reference in its entirety. Patent 8,888,288 describes novel vision monitoring, screening, and testing tools and help-seeking enablers that may be used individually as or in combination with other vision monitoring and screening testing systems that improves patients' ability to recognize the onset and progression of visual changes over time. Patients' ability to identify acute or chronic visual conditions on their own may drive earlier help-seeking behavior by the patient, enable earlier clinical diagnosis by an eye care specialist, and therefore resulting in earlier treatment and reduced likelihood of severe vision loss.

[0003] U.S. Patent Application Publication 2008/0028214 by Tafoya et al. published on

January 31, 2008 with the title “Secure flash media for medical records” and is incorporated herein by reference in its entirety. Patent Application Publication 2008/0028214 describes a secure mobile device for storing data in a secure manner. The secure mobile device has a microarchitecture connected via an interface to flash memory on the device. The microarchitecture is able to authenticate the access of information stored on the secure mobile device using a private key. Upon authentication of the access of information, a record owner of the device may provide the stored information to third party trusted entities using an associated public key. The secure mobile device allows for secure transaction of confidential data on a variety of systems at a number of locations. [0004] U.S. Patent Application Publication 2017/0188811 by Steven P. Lee published on

July 6, 2017 with the title “Comptuerized [ .v cj testing and determination of a visual field of a patient” and is incorporated herein by reference in its entirety. Patent Application Publication 2017/0188811 describes a system and method for testing and determining a visual field of a patient. In an example embodiment, a method includes instructing a computerized screen to display to a first visual field diagram to a patient, wherein the first visual field diagram includes a selected portion and instructing the patient to focus on the selected portion of the first visual field diagram. The example method also includes modifying the first visual field diagram to temporarily display an additional feature in an area corresponding to a part of the patient's visual field and receiving an input indicative that the patient saw the temporarily displayed additional feature. The example method further includes determining that the patient has vision in the part of the patient's visual field corresponding to the area in which the temporarily displayed additional feature was displayed based on the received input.

[0005] U.S. Patent 9,237,842 issued to Lee, et al. on January 19, 2016 with the title

“Computerized refraction and astigmatism determination,” and is incorporated herein by reference in its entirety. Patent 9,237,842 describes generally a system and method for determining the refractive error of a patient, more particularly determining the patient's refractive error by using a computerized screen, and providing the patient with a prescription for the patient's preferred type of corrective lenses. The system and method do not require the trip or expense of a doctor visit, and are optimized for convenience and cost effectiveness. In a general embodiment, the present disclosure provides a method for determining a corrective lenses prescription of a patient. The method includes, separately, for each eye of the patient, determining the astigmatism prescription of the patient via a computerized screen, and determining the power of the corrective lenses’ prescription of the patient via the computerized screen.

[0006] U.S. Patent Application Publication 2017/0290505 by Nico Correns, et al. published on October 12, 2017 with the title “Visual field measuring device and system” and is incorporated herein by reference in its entirety. Patent Application Publication 2017/0290505 describes mobile computer devices, front-mounted optical systems and computer program products allowing perimetry measurement.

[0007] U.S. Patent Application Publication 2018/0049637 by Florencio Gonzalez

Marquez, et al. published on February 22, 2018 with the title “Open retinoscope couplable to a smartphone” and is incorporated herein by reference in its entirety. Patent Application Publication 2018/0049637 describes a novel open retinoscope comprising: a body (3) comprising a light source (31) oriented in the longitudinal direction and a first coupling means (32) for coupling to a Volk lens (51) holder in a longitudinally sliding manner; a Volk lens (51) holder (5), coupled in a longitudinally sliding manner to the body (3), where the holder (5) comprises a second longitudinal sliding coupling means (52) which is complementary to the first longitudinal sliding coupling means (32) of the body (3); and a smartphone adaptor (2) which can be connected to the body (3) in a transversely sliding manner.

[0008] U.S. Patent Application Publication 2018/0153399 by Wolfgang Fink, et al. published on June 7, 2018 with the title “Smartphone-based handheld ophthalmic examination devices” and is incorporated herein by reference in its entirety. Patent Application Publication 2018/0153399 describes various examples of methods, systems and devices for ophthalmic examination. In one example, a handheld system includes an optical imaging assembly coupled to a user device that includes a camera aligned with optics of the optical imaging assembly. The user device can obtain ocular imaging data of at least a portion of an eye via the optics of the optical imaging assembly and provide ophthalmic evaluation results based at least in part upon the ocular imaging data. In another example, a method includes receiving ocular imaging data of at least a portion of an eye; analyzing the ocular imaging data to determine at least one ophthalmic characteristic of the eye; and determining a condition based at least in part upon the at least one ophthalmic characteristic.

[0009] U.S. Patent 6,385,727 by Robert D. Cassagnol et al. issued on May 7, 2002 with the title “Apparatus for providing a secure processing” and is incorporated herein by reference in its entirety. Patent 6,385,727 describes a secure processing environment. In one embodiment, the apparatus includes a read/write memory for storing encrypted information. It also includes a processor, a cipherer and an authenticator. The cipherer is in communication with the read/write memory for receiving encrypted information therefrom and is configured to decrypt the encrypted information into decrypted information to be returned to the memory for subsequent use by the processor. The authenticator authenticates the decrypted information prior to use by the processor and re-authenticates the information prior to re-encryption by the cipherer.

[0010] U.S. Patent 9,839,352 by David A. Wallace et al. issued on December 12, 2017 with the title “System, method and apparatus for enabling corneal topography mapping by smartphone” and is incorporated herein by reference in its entirety. Patent 9,839,352 describes an apparatus for enabling corneal topography that includes an attachment to align a placido disc illumination system with a camera of a mobile communication device. The placido disc illumination system generates concentric rings and reflects the concentric rings off a cornea. A portion of the reflected concentric rings are utilized to confirm vertex distance. The apparatus further comprises a memory, a processor, and computer-readable instructions in a mobile communication device. The camera captures an image of reflected concentric rings and communicates the captured image of the reflected concentric rings to an external computing device. A method for performing comeal topography utilizes a mobile computing and/or communication device, projects a plurality of peripheral concentric rings onto a subject's cornea and projects center rings onto the subject's cornea. The method further includes capturing, via a smartphone camera, an image of the projected peripheral concentric rings and the center rings.

[0011] U.S. Patent 6,736,511 by Plummer et al. issued May 18, 2004 with the title

“Virtual reality peripheral vision scotoma screening” and is incorporated herein by reference in its entirety. Patent 6,736,511 describes using a virtual reality display to present a random noise stimulus to a patient. Using an input device, a patient indicates the location of disturbances in the random noise display. In a preferred embodiment, a scanning retinal laser projects the random noise stimulus directly onto a patient's eye(s). The image is preferably presented at virtual infinity and can be imaged over the peripheral retina. A patient is directed to centrally fixate on the random noise display. A visual aid, such as a cross hair, may be included in the generated display to facilitate this focus. With a scanning laser virtual reality device having a narrow exit, the failure of a patient to centrally fixate causes the image presented to be distorted, incomplete or disappear from view. While a patient views the random noise display, the patient is directed to indicate any areas of disturbance using an input device. A preferred input device is a computer pen and tablet. This is easy to use while also viewing the random noise display. Preferably, the display changes when a patient uses the pen and tablet such that the patient sees the location being indicated either in place of or superimposed upon the random noise display.

[0012] PCT Application Serial Number PCT/US2019/063404 filed on November 26,

2019, by Marshall T. Masko et al., titled “APPARATUS AND METHOD FOR MICROCURRENT STIMULATION THERAPY”, and PCT Application Serial Number PCT/US2019/067627 filed on December 19, 2019, by Marshall T. Masko et al., titled “MICROCURRENT-STIMULATION-THERAPY APPARATUS AND METHOD”, both claim priority to

U.S. Provisional Patent Application 62/783,116 filed on December 20, 2018, by Marshall T. Masko et al., titled “APPARATUS AND METHOD FOR MICROCURRENT STIMULATION THERAPY,” each of which is incorporated herein by reference in its entirety.

[0013] United States Patent 10,391,312, issued August 27, 2019 to Blair P. Mowery et al. and titled “APPARATUS AND METHOD FOR OCULAR MICROCURRENT STIMULATION THERAPY,” is a U.S national phase of

PCT Application Serial Number PCT/US2016/051550 filed on September 13, 2016 with the title “APPARATUS AND METHOD FOR OCULAR MICROCURRENT STIMULATION THERAPY” (published as WO 2017/048731), which claims priority to

U.S. Provisional Patent Application 62/283,870 filed on September 15, 2015 by Blair Phillip Mowery et al., titled “Appliance for microstimulation therapy using a disposable material afixed to the upper and lower eye lid & other body parts,”

U.S. Provisional Patent Application 62/283,871 filed on September 15, 2015 by Marshall T. Masko et al., titled “Apparatus for a method of application of microcurrent stimulation therapy, consisting of a goggle device affixed to and encircling the upper and/or lower eyelids, as well as other body parts,” and

U.S. Provisional Patent Application 62/365,838, filed July 22, 2016 by Tapp et al., titled “Appliance for micro-current stimulation,” each of which is incorporated herein by reference in its entirety.

[0014] U.S. Patent 10,391,312 (listed above) describes devices and methods to deliver microcurrent stimulation therapy to the human body, when connected to a micro- stimulation current-generating apparatus. The method of applying microcurrent stimulation therapy to key points around the eye for treatment of problems such as macular degeneration, retinitis pigmentosa, glaucoma, optic neuritis and other eye-related or nerve-related conditions, as well as other diseases, such as Bell’s Palsy, requiring localized stimulation to eyes and/or other body parts.

[0015] U.S. Patent 6,035,236 issued to Jarding, et al. on March 7, 2000 with the title

“Methods and apparatus for electrical microcurrent stimulation therapy” and is incorporated herein by reference in its entirety. Patent 6,035,236 describes an apparatus for supplying an electrical signal to a body part in order to provide microcurrent stimulation therapy to the body part. The apparatus preferably includes a first sweep wave or sweep frequency signal generator configured to generate a first sweep wave signal, a buffer amplifier circuit configured to receive the first sweep wave signal from the first sweep signal generator and amplify and buffer the sweep wave signal creating a buffered sweep wave signal. In addition, the apparatus preferably includes a current limiting circuit configured to receive the buffered sweep wave signal from the buffer amplifier circuit and limit the amount of current supplied to the body part. Finally, the apparatus preferably comprises a probe for applying the sweep wave signal to the body part.

The apparatus may further comprise a second signal generator for generating a second signal which may comprise either a sweep wave signal or a non-sweep wave signal. The apparatus also will include a signal combining circuit configured to receive the first and second signals from the first and second signal generators and combine the first and second signals into a composite sweep wave signal.

[0016] U.S. Patent 6,275,735 issued to Jarding et al. on August 14, 2001 with the title

“Methods and apparatus for electrical microcurrent stimulation therapy” and is incorporated herein by reference in its entirety. Patent 6, 275,735 describes a method and apparatus for providing microcurrent stimulation therapy to a body part. In one embodiment, a method allows digital control of the modulation frequency of the microcurrent signal. The method includes receiving a first digital data word which is used to produce a first frequency related to the first digital data word, whereupon, a first microcurrent signal at the first frequency is applied to the body part. A second digital data word is received and used to produce a second frequency related to the second digital data word. A second microcurrent signal at the second frequency is applied to the body part. In another embodiment, a method allows direct digital synthesis of the microcurrent stimulation signal. A first digital data word is used to produce a first analog voltage which is applied to the body part. A second digital data word is used to produce a second analog voltage which is also applied to the body part, where the first analog voltage is different from the second analog voltage. In yet another embodiment, an apparatus for providing microcurrent stimulation therapy includes a digital-to-analog converter, a controller and a plurality of data words. The controller is coupled to the digital-to-analog converter and supplies the digital-to-analog converter with digital data words in order to generate an electrical signal for the microcurrent stimulation therapy.

[0017] There is a need for an improved system and method for vision-testing and treatment. SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

[0018] A system and method for testing an aspect of a visual perception of a patient. In some embodiments, the test is for vision problems due to age-related macular degeneration (AMD).

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0019] FIG. 1 is a flowchart of a process 100 for evaluating a user request for treatment, according to some embodiments of the present invention.

[0020] FIG. 2 is a flowchart of a process 200 for evaluating a user request for a checkup and possible follow-on treatment(s), according to some embodiments of the present invention.

[0021] FIG. 3 A is a top view schematic diagram, partially in cross section, of a system

300 for self-administration of a vision test, according to some embodiments of the present invention.

[0022] FIG. 3B1 is a partially top-view / partially screen-view schematic diagram 302.1, partially in cross section, of a system 300 for self-administration of a vision test to the patient’s left eye using crosshairs, according to some embodiments of the present invention.

[0023] FIG. 3B2 is a partially top-view / partially screen- view schematic diagram 302.2, partially in cross section, of a system 300 for self-administration of a vision test to the patient’s left eye using a two-dimensional grid or the like, according to some embodiments of the present invention.

[0024] FIG. 3B3 is a partially top-view / partially screen-view schematic diagram 302.3, partially in cross section, of a system 300 for self-administration of a vision test to the patient’s left eye using a color-dot pattern 336 or the like, according to some embodiments of the present invention.

[0025] FIG. 3C1 is a partially top-view / partially screen- view schematic diagram 303.1, partially in cross section, of a system 300 for self-administration of a vision test to the patient’s right eye, according to some embodiments of the present invention.

[0026] FIG. 3C2 is a partially top-view / partially screen-view schematic diagram 303.2, partially in cross section, of a system 300 for self-administration of a vision test to the patient’s right eye using a two-dimensional grid or the like, according to some embodiments of the present invention.

[0027] FIG. 3C3 is a partially top-view / partially screen-view schematic diagram 303.3, partially in cross section, of a system 300 for self-administration of a vision test to the patient’s right eye using a color-dot pattern 336 or the like, according to some embodiments of the present invention.

[0028] FIG. 4 is a block diagram of an “on-line” registration method 400 used to obtain patient information, permissions and/or waivers, according to some embodiments of the present invention.

DESCRIPTION OF PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS

[0029] Although the following detailed description contains many specifics for the purpose of illustration, a person of ordinary skill in the art will appreciate that many variations and alterations to the following details are within the scope of the invention. Specific examples are used to illustrate particular embodiments; however, the invention described in the claims is not intended to be limited to only these examples, but rather includes the full scope of the attached claims. Accordingly, the following preferred embodiments of the invention are set forth without any loss of generality to, and without imposing limitations upon the claimed invention. Further, in the following detailed description of the preferred embodiments, reference is made to the accompanying drawings that form a part hereof, and in which are shown by way of illustration specific embodiments in which the invention may be practiced. It is understood that other embodiments may be utilized and structural changes may be made without departing from the scope of the present invention.

[0030] It is specifically contemplated that the present invention includes embodiments having combinations and subcombinations of the various embodiments and features that are individually described herein (i.e., rather than listing every combinatorial of the elements, this specification includes descriptions of representative embodiments and contemplates embodiments that include some of the features from one embodiment combined with some of the features of another embodiment, including embodiments that include some of the features from one embodiment combined with some of the features of embodiments described in the patents and application publications incorporated by reference in the present application). Further, some embodiments include fewer than all the components described as part of any one of the embodiments described herein.

[0031] The leading digit(s) of reference numbers appearing in the Figures generally corresponds to the Figure number in which that component is first introduced, such that the same reference number is used throughout to refer to an identical component which appears in multiple Figures. Signals and connections may be referred to by the same reference number or label, and the actual meaning will be clear from its use in the context of the description.

[0032] Certain marks referenced herein may be common-law or registered trademarks of third parties affiliated or unaffiliated with the applicant or the assignee. Use of these marks is for providing an enabling disclosure by way of example and shall not be construed to limit the scope of the claimed subject matter to material associated with such marks.

[0033] Figure 1 is a flowchart of a process 100 for evaluating a user/provider request for a diagnosis and possible initial treatment, according to some embodiments of the present invention. In some embodiments, process 100 includes block 97.1 representing a physician 99 taking an action, wherein the physician 99 is attending to a patient/user 98. The action 97.1 requests/schedules a diagnostic test from a facility suited for such testing; block 110 representing the testing facility that elicits and receives such test requests, and block 120 representing administering the diagnostic-test, generating a data report, and delivering the report to the patient’s/user’s physician 99, who, based on the report, at block 97.2 requests a treatment (a treatment shown at block 140, such as, for example, those described in U.S. Patent 10,391,312, U.S. Patent 6,035,236, and/or U.S. Patent 6,275,735 set forth above). In some embodiments, block 140 also includes performing a follow-on diagnostic test, such as done at block 120, to see if there are any immediate improved results. In some embodiments, at block 150, the results from the follow-on diagnostic test performed as part of block 140 are checked (in some embodiments, optionally including a review by physician 99), and if appropriate, an approval or rejection (as appropriate) is issued at block 150, and provided to the user/patient 98 and stored in database 160 that maintains a log of patients and results of checkups. In some embodiments, at block 97.3, the user/patient 98 or the user’s/patient’s physician 99 sets up an account in the database 160 for a series of ongoing treatments over a period of time.

[0034] Figure 2 is a flowchart of a process 200 for evaluating a user/provider request for a checkup and possible follow-on treatment, according to some embodiments of the present invention. In some embodiments, process 200 includes block 97.4 wherein a user 98 (or in other embodiments, optionally the physician 99 who is supervising the ongoing treatments) sets up an account, providing a centralized database 260 (which, in some embodiments, is combined with database 160 as described for Figure 1) with patient information, such as their medical history (including prior diagnoses and treatments) and billing information. In some embodiments, at block 97.5, the patient 98 requests a checkup, which, in some embodiments, includes scanning a QR code received by mail or email, that was sent (eliciting a response) at block 210 as a reminder based on data from checkup system database 260. In some embodiments, when the elicited response is received, control is passed to block 220, which processes the request (optionally via data in the QR code) to obtain the user name, address, medical history and the like, and as a result, a checkup test request with customized parameters is provided to block 230 which pushes, to the patient’s smartphone or personal computer or the like, the checkup test request with customized parameters, which prompts the patient 98 to click on an icon (or provide a voice command, enter a code, or provide some other positive indication to the smartphone). In some embodiments, the patient 98 inserts their smartphone or other device having a display unit into a goggle-type holder 298 as are commonly available, or similar device specially customized as described and shown in Figure 3A.

[0035] Figure 3A is a top-view schematic (block) diagram, partially in cross section, of a system 300 for self-administration of a vision test, according to some embodiments of the present invention. In some embodiments, system 300 includes a head-mounted fixture or housing 320 into which a smartphone 310 is inserted such that a user/patient 98 (not explicitly shown here) having patient’s left eye 98.1 and right eye 98.2, looks through lenses 316.1 and 316.2 at screen 311 of smartphone 310. In some embodiments, smartphone 310 executes application software 390 (called APP 390) stored in memory in the smartphone 310 (in some embodiments, APP 390 is downloaded from the internet each time it is needed to perform the tests of the present invention and then the software can be removed from smartphone 310 until it is again needed for later tests). In some embodiments, system 300 includes optics 315 (such as a plurality of reflectors 315.1-315.2), that permit camera 314 in the smartphone to observe patient’s eyes 98.1 and 98.2 for the purpose of tracking eye movements (and/or other additional/altemative purposes described herein). In some embodiments, reflector 315.2 is rotatable to select which eye is being imaged by camera 314. In some embodiments, one or more shutters 317.1-317.2 are controlled manually (e.g., by patient 98 moving the shutter(s)) or automatically (e.g., under control of smartphone 310 via a Bluetooth, WiFi, wired connection or the like) to permit the patient 98 to view the display 311 as if it were a large-format television like display with one or the other eyes 98.1 and 98.2 at a time, or both eyes simultaneously. In the configuration shown in Figure 3A, system 300 is configured to have shutter 317.2 blocking light to the right eye 98.2, and to have reflector 315.2 allow camera 314 take images of the left eye 98.1 while left eye 98.1 is observing the active portion 312 of screen 311 of smartphone 310. In some embodiments, a forehead support surface 329 of housing 320 rests upon the forehead of patient 98, while a nose support surface 328 of housing 320 rests upon the nose of patient 98. At a different period of time, the shutter(s) 317.1 and/or 317.2, and reflector 315.2 are moved so that the right eye 98.2 may be tested. In some embodiments, the movement of shutter(s) 317.1 and/or 317.2, and reflector 315.2 may be configured so that both eyes can be tested simultaneously for certain diagnostic tests. In some embodiments, lenses 316.1 and 316.2 are implemented as, or replaced by, compound lenses and/or holographic lenses, as may be more suitable for certain tests. In some embodiments, a handheld user-interaction device 350 communicates wirelessly with smartphone 300 via Bluetooth, WiFi, infrared (IR) light, ultrasound or other communications modalities. In some embodiments, handheld user- interaction device 350 is used to receive manual input from the patient 98, for example, to indicate those moments when the patient observes something on screen 311. In some embodiments, different colors, contrasts, line thicknesses, or such variations are applied to the crosshairs 321 and 322 to determine the extent and acuity of the patient’s vision and visual field. In some embodiments, crosshairs 321 and 322 are horizontal and vertical, respectively, while in other embodiments, other orientation angles are used.

[0036] Figure 3B 1 is a partially top-view / partially screen-view schematic diagram

302.1, partially in cross section, of a system 300 for self-administration of a vision test, according to some embodiments of the present invention. The upper portion of Figure 3B is indicative of the screen-view of one presentation display - i.e., active area 312 - on screen 311 for a first period of time, wherein inactive portion 313 represents a portion of the display unit that is inactive and/or darkened so that just the left eye 98.1 may be tested during this first period of time. In some embodiments, very brief light-change flashes 323 or 324 are displayed on display unit 311, wherein brief flash of light 323 would be perceived by patient 98 since it is in the visual field that is still functional, whereas in contrast, brief flash of light 324 would not be perceived by patient 98 since it is in the portion 331 of the patient’s left-eye visual field that is no longer functional. In some embodiments, brief light-change flashes 323 or 324 provide increased amounts of light at a single selected location of one or more pixels of the screen 311, and/or decreased amounts of light at that single selected location of one or more pixels of the screen 311, wherein the remainder of active area 312 is a neutral uniform grey or other hue/saturation selected to allow determination of the location(s) and extents of age-related macular degeneration or other eye condition. [0037] Note that reference number 331 represents that a map or graph 331 of that portion of the patient’s visual field that is no longer functional - as previously diagnosed and measured - and is not displayed on screen 311, but rather is used to compare against new measurements.

In some embodiments, complete crosshairs 321 and 322 are displayed on screen 311 and the patient 98 is requested to try to center their gaze on the patient-imagined location where crosshairs 321 and 322 would meet if macular degeneration had not made area 331 non functional. In some embodiments, during the first period of time, many brief light-change flashes 323/324 are sequentially presented in different locations on presentation display 312. In some embodiments, crosshairs 321 and 322 remain stationary and the patient 98 tries to maintain their gaze centered at where the patient thinks they intersect. In other embodiments, camera 314 obtains real-time images and determines eye tracking of where the patient 98 is looking at each moment in time and moves the crosshairs 321 and 322 so that the system compensates for eye movement, relaxing the requirements on the patient, and the relative locations of the brief light- change flashes 323/324 relative to the eye-tracking cross hairs are recorded in order to obtain an accurate map of the actual extent of the visual-field deficiency 331. In some embodiments, system 300 receives prompt indications from the patient 98 each time the patient sees the flash and the system 300 records that location (since the patient 98 just indicated they saw that location) as being in the patient-viewable portion of their visual field for that eye. System 300 also tracks the locations 324 where there was a flash presented at the location and there was to response from the patient that they saw that flash. In some embodiments, handheld user- interaction device 350 is used to receive manual input from the patient 98, for example, to indicate those moments when the patient 98 observes brief light-change flashes 323 on screen 311. In some embodiments, handheld user-interaction device 350 is used to receive manual input from the patient 98, for example from a joystick- like sensor, to allow the patient to move where on screen 311 the active display 312 is located or centered for the test(s), to improve patient comfort and the like.

[0038] Referring again to Figure 3A, in other embodiments, smartphone 310 elicits and receives voice commands or other verbal or sound indications from patient 98 when they observe brief light-change flashes 323 on screen 311, or to obtain other indications from the patient as they take the test(s). Detection by system 300 of such verbal or sound indications facilitates testing of patients who may have difficulty interacting with manual input devices. In still other embodiments, camera 314 is used to detect facial expressions or other body movements as indications that the patient saw particular flashes. In yet other embodiments, one or more sensors 360 (such as accelerometer(s) and/or gyroscope(s) and/or magnetometer(s)) inside smartphone 310 or in housing 320 are used to detect patient movements, such as a head nod or the like, as indications of whether or not the patient saw a particular flash at a particular location in their visual field. Detection by system 300 of such facial expressions or head- movement indications facilitates testing of patients who may have difficulty interacting with manual-input or verbal-input devices.

[0039] Figure 3B2 is a top view schematic diagram 302.2, partially in cross section, of a system 300 for self-administration of a vision test of the patient’s left eye 98.1 using a two- dimensional (2D) grid 326 or the like, according to some embodiments of the present invention. In some embodiments, 2D grid 326 includes regularly spaced horizontal and vertical lines in a Cartesian grid. In other embodiments, a triangular, hexagonal or other grid is used as an alternative or additional test. In some embodiments, system 300 elicits and receives one or more indications from the patient as to whether the grid 326 appears to be straight orthogonal grid lines and whether the edges and corners are perceptible as the patient maintains their gaze centered on center location 327. In some embodiments, the lines of grid 326 are horizontal and vertical, while in other embodiments, other orientation angles are used. In some embodiments, different colors, contrasts, line thicknesses, or such variations are applied to the grid 326 to determine the extent and acuity of the patient’s vision and visual field. Other aspects of the embodiment of Figure 3B2 are the same as those of Figure 3B 1.

[0040] Figure 3B3 is a partially top-view / partially screen-view schematic diagram

302.3, partially in cross section, of a system 300 for self-administration of a vision test to the patient’s left eye using a color-dot pattern 336 or the like, according to some embodiments of the present invention. In some embodiments, color-dot pattern 336 includes randomly sized dots spaced horizontally and vertically and having various hues and saturations, as are commonly known (see, e.g., en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Color_blindness) and designed to test for various forms of color blindness and similar eye conditions.

[0041] Figure 3C1 is a partially top-view / partially screen-view schematic diagram

303.1, partially in cross section, of a system 300 for self-administration of a vision test of the patient’s right eye, according to some embodiments of the present invention. The upper portion of Figure 3C is indicative of the screen- view of the presentation display - i.e., active area 312 — on screen 311 for a second period of time when the patient’s right eye 98.2 is being tested, wherein inactive portion 313 represents a portion of the display unit that is inactive and/or darkened so that just the right eye 98.2 may be tested during this second period of time. In some embodiments, very brief light-change flashes 323 or 324 are displayed on display unit 311, wherein brief flash of light 323 would be perceived by patient 98 since it is in the visual field of the patient’s right eye 98.2 that is still functional, whereas in contrast, brief flash of light 324 would not be perceived by patient 98 since it is in the portion 332 of the patient’s right-eye visual field that is no longer functional.

[0042] Figure 3C2 is a partially top-view / partially screen-view schematic diagram

303.2, partially in cross section, of a system 300 for self-administration of a vision test of the patient’s right eye 98.2 using a two-dimensional grid 326 or the like, according to some embodiments of the present invention. Other aspects of Figure 3C2 are the same as described for Figure 3B2.

[0043] Figure 3C3 is a partially top-view / partially screen-view schematic diagram

303.3, partially in cross section, of a system 300 for self-administration of a vision test to the patient’s right eye using color-dot pattern 336 or the like, according to some embodiments of the present invention.

[0044] Figure 4 is a block diagram of an “on-line” registration method 400 used to obtain patient information, permissions and/or waivers, according to some embodiments of the present invention. In some embodiments, method 400 is a smartphone “app,” or software application, that includes eliciting and receiving online registration data from a patient 98 (including HIIPA waiver, so an operating company can access ah patient-treatment information related to their therapy.) In some embodiments, the data includes Patient Name/Address/Age/VA (visual acuity) before treatment and after, Life-style questions, Clinic and Doctor Name and Address, Date of Initial Treatment and subsequent treatment history. In some embodiments, the therapy sessions are provided as a Free Service for Patients who are signed up for some related treatment, or by taking the therapy sessions they get a service or product (say, “XYZ”) for free.

[0045] In some embodiments, the patient is requested periodically to Conduct Visual

Acuity Test to monitor therapy drop off or retreatment needs

[0046] In some embodiments, APP 390 stores visual acuity data such as patient generated information so the patient can see their treatment requirements fall off as the treatment is effective as a remedy. In some embodiments, APP 390 also outputs to the patient a reminder, suggestion or warning that they need to go in for a retreatment. [0047] Also in some embodiments, APP 390 enables the patient to request and receive a comparison of the current test to previous tests including the most recent one; one a month ago; one or two months ago; twelve months ago, etc.

[0048] In some embodiments, APP 390 measures color receptivity (color blindness type and extent), and provides a recommendation of eye glasses having a particular color- spectrum filter that enhances the patient’s color vision.

[0049] In some embodiments, APP 390 measures contrast sensitivity.

[0050] In some embodiments, the present invention includes a feature in the smartphone

APP 390 to provide a timed alarm, reminder or instruction via smartphone to regularly take the test / can be set for varied incremental days, depending upon need. In some embodiments, the alarm is given by a recorded or synthesized voice instruction.

[0051] In some embodiments, the present invention includes a feature in the smartphone

APP 390 to provide a reminder alarm for scheduling the in-clinic appointment (after it is evident one is needed.)

[0052] In some embodiments, the present invention includes a feature in the smartphone

APP 390 to provide an online automatic appointment setup to a primary clinic. In some embodiments, APP 390 includes a capability in the smartphone 310 insert appointments to its calendar automatically.

[0053] In some embodiments, the present invention includes a feature in the smartphone

APP 390 to elicit and receive answers to Quality-of-Life Questions - answer and store in data base which is all directed to a central location, and optionally to each patient’s clinic.

[0054] In some embodiments, the collection and aggregation of data is used to track drop off rates, and select those treatments and regimens that are most effective to treat subpopulations of patients who have certain characteristics, and to track retreatment rates for setting insurance rates and compensations. In some embodiments, APP 390 assists in encouraging certain patients to continue to be treated at a particular clinic to provide the optimal treatment.

[0055] In some embodiments, the present invention provides a system for monitoring vision characteristics of an eye of a patient, the system including a personal electronic device, wherein the personal electronic device includes: a processor, a memory operatively coupled to the processor, a user interface operatively coupled to the processor, and an assessment module executed by the processor and configured to perform a first vision analysis on the eye of the patient at a first time in order to produce a first vision-characteristic result, wherein the assessment module is further configured to perform the first vision analysis on the eye of the patient at a second time in order to produce a second vision-characteristic result, wherein the first vision-characteristic result and the second vision-characteristic result are stored in the memory, wherein the assessment module is further configured to perform a first comparison between the first vision-characteristic result and the second vision-characteristic result, and wherein the user interface is configured to generate a first message for the patient based at least in part on the first comparison.

[0056] In some embodiments of the system, the personal electronic device further includes a display, wherein the first vision analysis is a visual-field test, and wherein, during the performance of the visual-field test: the display is configured to project a series of light spots, and the user interface is configured to elicit and receive user input from the patient based on the projected series of light spots. In some embodiments of the system, the user interface is further configured to elicit and receive user information from the patient, wherein the user information includes treatment data associated with an eye treatment performed on the eye of the patient, and wherein the first message includes an alert that indicates the patient must undergo the eye treatment.

[0057] In some embodiments of the system, the user interface is further configured to generate an alarm that reminds the patient to undergo the first vision analysis at a preselected time frequency. In some embodiments, the user interface is further configured to generate an alarm that reminds the patient to undergo the first vision analysis at a preselected time frequency, and wherein the alarm is a verbalized message.

[0058] In some embodiments of the system, the first vision analysis is a color-vision test.

In some embodiments, the first vision analysis is a visual-acuity test. In some embodiments, the first vision analysis is a contrast-sensitivity test. In some embodiments, the personal electronic device is configured to transmit the first vision-characteristic result and the second vision- characteristic result to a remote server.

[0059] In some embodiments, the present invention provides a software application for monitoring vision characteristics of an eye of a patient, wherein the application executes on a mobile electronic device, wherein the mobile electronic device includes a processor, a memory operatively coupled to the processor, and a user interface operatively coupled to the processor. The application includes: an output driver that executes on the processor and causes output of a transient light pattern to an eye of a patient; a response unit that executes on the processor and is configured to elicit and receive an indication of a response of the patient to a perception by the patient of the visually perceptible light pattern; an assessment module that executes on the processor, wherein the assessment module is configured to perform a first vision analysis on the eye of the patient at a first temporal moment in order to produce a first vision-characteristic result, wherein the assessment module is further configured to perform the first vision analysis on the eye of the patient at a second temporal moment in order to produce a second vision- characteristic result, wherein the assessment module is further configured to store the first vision-characteristic result and the second vision-characteristic result in the memory, and wherein the assessment module is further configured to perform a first comparison between the first vision-characteristic result and the second vision-characteristic result, and wherein the user interface is configured to output a first message based at least in part on the first comparison.

[0060] In some embodiments, the response unit elicits and receives a verbal indication from the patient of the patient’s perception of the transient visual pattern.

[0061] In some embodiments, the response unit elicits and receives a manual indication from the patient of the patient’s perception of the transient visual pattern.

[0062] In some embodiments, the response unit includes a camera that captures a first plurality of images and analyzes differences among the first plurality of images to determine at least one aspect of the patient’s perception of the transient visual pattern.

[0063] In some embodiments, the response unit includes a camera that captures a first plurality of images and analyzes eye-position differences among the first plurality of images to determine at least one aspect of the patient’s perception of the transient visual pattern.

[0064] In some embodiments, the response unit includes a camera that captures a retinal image of the patient’s retina and analyzes the retinal image to determine at least one aspect of the patient’s visual field.

[0065] In some embodiments, the transient visual pattern includes a temporally spaced sequence of light spots flashed at a plurality of different locations over a period of time.

[0066] In some embodiments, the application further includes a reminder module that outputs a reminder to the patient at least once per day to take a medicament for AMD. (an AMD medicine)

[0067] In some embodiments, the response unit includes a camera that captures a first plurality of images and analyzes eye-position differences among the first plurality of images to determine a gaze direction, and wherein the output driver also causes output of a non-transient light pattern to an eye of a patient and moves the non-transient light pattern based on the determined gaze direction to maintain a relative position of the non-transient light pattern relative to the gaze direction.

[0068] In some embodiments, the mobile electronic device includes a camera that captures a first plurality of images, and wherein the application analyzes eye-position differences among the first plurality of images to determine a gaze direction, and wherein the output driver also causes output of a non-transient light pattern to an eye of a patient and moves the non-transient light pattern based on the determined gaze direction to maintain a relative position of the non-transient light pattern relative to the gaze direction, and wherein the application generates a map of the patient’ s visual field based on locations of the transient patterns relative to the moved positions of the non-transient light pattern.

[0069] In some embodiments, the present invention provides a system for monitoring vision characteristics of an eye of a patient. The system includes: a personal electronic device, wherein the personal electronic device includes: a processor, a memory operatively coupled to the processor, a user interface operatively coupled to the processor, and an assessment module executed by the processor and configured to perform a first vision analysis on the eye of the patient at a first time in order to produce a first vision-characteristic result, wherein the assessment module is further configured to perform the first vision analysis on the eye of the patient at a second time in order to produce a second vision-characteristic result, wherein the first vision-characteristic result and the second vision-characteristic result are stored in the memory, wherein the assessment module is further configured to perform a first comparison between the first vision-characteristic result and the second vision-characteristic result, and wherein the user interface is configured to generate a first message for the patient based at least in part on the first comparison.

[0070] In some embodiments, the personal electronic device further includes a display, wherein the first vision analysis is a visual-field test, and wherein, during the performance of the visual-field test: the display is configured to output a temporally spaced sequence of light spots to a plurality of different locations on the display, and the user interface is configured to elicit and receive user input from the patient based on the patient’s perception of the outputted sequence of light spots.

[0071] In some embodiments, the user interface is further configured to elicit and receive user information from the patient, wherein the user information includes treatment data associated with an eye treatment performed on the eye of the patient, and wherein the first message includes an alert that indicates the patient is to undergo the eye treatment.

[0072] In some embodiments, the user interface is further configured to generate an indication that reminds the patient to undergo the first vision analysis at each time of a preselected time schedule.

[0073] In some embodiments, the user interface is further configured to generate an indication that reminds the patient to undergo the first vision analysis at a preselected time schedule, and wherein the alarm is a verbalized message.

[0074] In some embodiments, the first vision analysis includes a color-vision test.

[0075] In some embodiments, the first vision analysis includes a visual-acuity test.

[0076] In some embodiments, the first vision analysis includes a contrast- sensitivity test.

[0077] In some embodiments, the personal electronic device is configured to transmit the first vision-characteristic result and the second vision-characteristic result to a remote server.

[0078] In some embodiments, the assessment module is further configured to perform a second vision analysis on the eye of the patient at a third time in order to produce a third vision- characteristic result, wherein the assessment module is further configured to perform the second vision analysis on the eye of the patient at a fourth time in order to produce a fourth vision- characteristic result, wherein the third vision-characteristic result and the fourth vision- characteristic result are stored in the memory, wherein the assessment module is further configured to perform a second comparison between the third vision-characteristic result and the fourth vision-characteristic result, and wherein the user interface is configured to generate a second message for the patient based at least in part on the second comparison.

[0079] In some embodiments, the present invention provides a non-transient computer- readable medium containing instructions that, when executed on an information processor having a memory and a user interface, causes execution of a method including: outputting a transient light pattern to an eye of a patient; receiving, via a user interface, an indication of a response of the patient to a perception by the patient of the visually perceptible light pattern; performing a first vision analysis on the eye of the patient at a first temporal moment in order to produce a first vision-characteristic result; performing the first vision analysis on the eye of the patient at a second temporal moment in order to produce a second vision-characteristic result; storing the first vision-characteristic result and the second vision-characteristic result in the memory; performing a first comparison between the first vision-characteristic result and the second vision-characteristic result; and outputting a first message based at least in part on the first comparison.

[0080] In some embodiments of the computer-readable medium, the information processor is in a mobile electronic device that includes a display, wherein the first vision analysis is a visual-field test, and wherein the method further includes: outputting to the display a temporally spaced sequence of light spots to a plurality of different locations on the display, and eliciting and receiving user input from the patient based on the patient’s perception of the outputted sequence of light spots.

[0081] In some embodiments of the computer-readable medium, the method further includes: eliciting and receiving user information from the patient, wherein the user information includes treatment data associated with an eye treatment performed on the eye of the patient, and wherein the first message includes an alert that indicates the patient is to undergo the eye treatment.

[0082] In some embodiments of the computer-readable medium, the method further includes: generating an indication that reminds the patient to undergo the first vision analysis at each time of a preselected time schedule.

[0083] In some embodiments of the computer-readable medium, the method further includes: generating an indication that reminds the patient to undergo the first vision analysis at a preselected time schedule, and wherein the alarm is a verbalized message.

[0084] In some embodiments of the computer-readable medium, the first vision analysis includes a color-vision test.

[0085] In some embodiments of the computer-readable medium, the first vision analysis includes a visual-acuity test. [0086] In some embodiments of the computer-readable medium, the first vision analysis includes a contrast-sensitivity test.

[0087] In some embodiments of the computer-readable medium, the method further includes: transmitting the first vision-characteristic result and the second vision-characteristic result to a remote server.

[0088] In some embodiments of the computer-readable medium, the method further includes: performing a second vision analysis on the eye of the patient at a third time in order to produce a third vision-characteristic result; performing the second vision analysis on the eye of the patient again at a fourth time in order to produce a fourth vision-characteristic result; storing the third vision-characteristic result and the fourth vision-characteristic result in the memory; performing a second comparison between the third vision-characteristic result and the fourth vision-characteristic result; and generating a second message for the patient based at least in part on the second comparison.

[0089] In some embodiments, the present invention provides a system for monitoring vision characteristics of an eye of a patient, wherein the system includes an application that executes on a personal electronic device, wherein the personal electronic device includes a processor, a memory operatively coupled to the processor, and a user interface operatively coupled to the processor. The application includes: an output driver that executes on the processor and causes output of a transient light pattern to an eye of a patient; a response unit that executes on the processor and is configured to elicit and receive an indication of a response of the patient to a perception by the patient of the visually perceptible light pattern; an assessment module that executes on the processor, wherein the assessment module is configured to perform a first vision analysis on the eye of the patient at a first temporal moment in order to produce a first vision-characteristic result, wherein the assessment module is further configured to perform the first vision analysis on the eye of the patient at a second temporal moment in order to produce a second vision-characteristic result, wherein the assessment module is further configured to store the first vision-characteristic result and the second vision-characteristic result in the memory, and wherein the assessment module is further configured to perform a first comparison between the first vision-characteristic result and the second vision-characteristic result, and wherein the user interface is configured to output a first message based at least in part on the first comparison.

[0090] Some embodiments further include the processor, the memory operatively coupled to the processor, and the user interface.

[0091] In some embodiments, the message is a diagnosis of an eye malady of the patient.

[0092] In some embodiments, the message is an indication of a change in relative to a prior diagnosis of an eye malady of the patient.

[0093] In some embodiments of the system, the assessment module is further configured to perform a second vision analysis on the eye of the patient at a third time in order to produce a third vision-characteristic result, wherein the assessment module is further configured to perform the second vision analysis on the eye of the patient at a fourth time in order to produce a fourth vision-characteristic result, wherein the third vision-characteristic result and the fourth vision-characteristic result are stored in the memory, wherein the assessment module is further configured to perform a second comparison between the third vision-characteristic result and the fourth vision-characteristic result, and wherein the user interface is configured to generate a second message for the patient based at least in part on the second comparison.

[0094] It is to be understood that the above description is intended to be illustrative, and not restrictive. Although numerous characteristics and advantages of various embodiments as described herein have been set forth in the foregoing description, together with details of the structure and function of various embodiments, many other embodiments and changes to details will be apparent to those of skill in the art upon reviewing the above description. The scope of the invention should be, therefore, determined with reference to the appended claims, along with the full scope of equivalents to which such claims are entitled. In the appended claims, the terms “including” and “in which” are used as the plain-English equivalents of the respective terms “comprising” and “wherein,” respectively. Moreover, the terms “first,” “second,” and “third,” etc., are used merely as labels, and are not intended to impose numerical requirements on their objects.

Claims

What is claimed is:

1. A software application for monitoring vision characteristics of an eye of a patient, wherein the application executes on a mobile electronic device, wherein the mobile electronic device includes a processor, a memory operatively coupled to the processor, and a user interface operatively coupled to the processor, the application comprising: an output driver that executes on the processor and causes output of a transient light pattern to an eye of a patient; a response unit that executes on the processor and is configured to receive an indication of a response of the patient to a perception by the patient of the visually perceptible light pattern; and an assessment module that executes on the processor, wherein the assessment module is configured to perform a first vision analysis on the eye of the patient at a first temporal moment in order to produce a first vision- characteristic result, wherein the assessment module is further configured to perform the first vision analysis on the eye of the patient at a second temporal moment in order to produce a second vision-characteristic result, wherein the assessment module is further configured to store the first vision- characteristic result and the second vision-characteristic result in the memory, and wherein the assessment module is further configured to perform a first comparison between the first vision-characteristic result and the second vision- characteristic result, and wherein the user interface is configured to output a first message based at least in part on the first comparison.

2. The application of claim 1, wherein the response unit elicits and receives a verbal indication from the patient of the patient’s perception of the transient visual pattern.

3. The application of claim 1, wherein the response unit elicits and receives a manual indication from the patient of the patient’s perception of the transient visual pattern.

4. The application of claim 1, wherein the response unit includes a camera that captures a first plurality of images and analyzes differences among the first plurality of images to determine at least one aspect of the patient’s perception of the transient visual pattern.

5. The application of claim 1, wherein the response unit includes a camera that captures a first plurality of images and analyzes eye-position differences among the first plurality of images to determine at least one aspect of the patient’s perception of the transient visual pattern.

6. The application of claim 1, wherein the response unit includes a camera that captures a retinal image of the patient’s retina and analyzes the retinal image to determine at least one aspect of the patient’s visual field.

7. The application of claim 1, wherein the transient visual pattern includes a temporally spaced sequence of light spots flashed at a plurality of different locations over a period of time.

8. The application of claim 1, further comprising a reminder module that outputs a reminder to the patient at least once per day to take a medicament for AMD. (an AMD medicine)

9. The application of claim 1, wherein the response unit includes a camera that captures a first plurality of images and analyzes eye-position differences among the first plurality of images to determine a gaze direction, and wherein the output driver also causes output of a non transient light pattern to an eye of a patient and moves the non-transient light pattern based on the determined gaze direction to maintain a relative position of the non-transient light pattern relative to the gaze direction.

10. The application of claim 1, wherein the mobile electronic device includes a camera that captures a first plurality of images, and wherein the application analyzes eye-position differences among the first plurality of images to determine a gaze direction, and wherein the output driver also causes output of a non-transient light pattern to an eye of a patient and moves the non-transient light pattern based on the determined gaze direction to maintain a relative position of the non-transient light pattern relative to the gaze direction, and wherein the application generates a map of the patient’ s visual field based on locations of the transient patterns relative to the moved positions of the non-transient light pattern.

11. A system for monitoring vision characteristics of an eye of a patient, the system comprising: a personal electronic device, wherein the personal electronic device includes: a processor, a memory operatively coupled to the processor, a user interface operatively coupled to the processor, and an assessment module executed by the processor and configured to perform a first vision analysis on the eye of the patient at a first time in order to produce a first vision-characteristic result, wherein the assessment module is further configured to perform the first vision analysis on the eye of the patient at a second time in order to produce a second vision-characteristic result, wherein the first vision-characteristic result and the second vision-characteristic result are stored in the memory, wherein the assessment module is further configured to perform a first comparison between the first vision-characteristic result and the second vision-characteristic result, and wherein the user interface is configured to generate a first message for the patient based at least in part on the first comparison.

12. The system of claim 11, wherein the personal electronic device further includes a display, wherein the first vision analysis is a visual-field test, and wherein, during the performance of the visual-field test: the display is configured to output a temporally spaced sequence of light spots to a plurality of different locations on the display, and the user interface is configured to elicit and receive user input from the patient based on the patient’s perception of the outputted sequence of light spots.

13. The system of claim 11, wherein the user interface is further configured to elicit and receive user information from the patient, wherein the user information includes treatment data associated with an eye treatment performed on the eye of the patient, and wherein the first message includes an alert that indicates the patient is to undergo the eye treatment.

14. The system of claim 11, wherein the user interface is further configured to generate an indication that reminds the patient to undergo the first vision analysis at each time of a preselected time schedule.

15. The system of claim 11, wherein the user interface is further configured to generate an indication that reminds the patient to undergo the first vision analysis at a preselected time schedule, and wherein the alarm is a verbalized message.

16. The system of claim 11, wherein the first vision analysis includes a color-vision test.

17. The system of claim 11, wherein the first vision analysis includes a visual-acuity test.

18. The system of claim 11, wherein the first vision analysis includes a contrast-sensitivity test.

19. The system of claim 11, wherein the personal electronic device is configured to transmit the first vision-characteristic result and the second vision-characteristic result to a remote server.

20. The system of claim 11, wherein the assessment module is further configured to perform a second vision analysis on the eye of the patient at a third time in order to produce a third vision-characteristic result, wherein the assessment module is further configured to perform the second vision analysis on the eye of the patient at a fourth time in order to produce a fourth vision-characteristic result, wherein the third vision-characteristic result and the fourth vision- characteristic result are stored in the memory, wherein the assessment module is further configured to perform a second comparison between the third vision-characteristic result and the fourth vision-characteristic result, and wherein the user interface is configured to generate a second message for the patient based at least in part on the second comparison.

21. A non-transient computer-readable medium containing instructions that, when executed on an information processor having a memory and a user interface, causes execution of a method comprising: outputting a transient light pattern to an eye of a patient; receiving, via a user interface, an indication of a response of the patient to a perception by the patient of the visually perceptible light pattern; performing a first vision analysis on the eye of the patient at a first temporal moment in order to produce a first vision-characteristic result; performing the first vision analysis on the eye of the patient at a second temporal moment in order to produce a second vision-characteristic result; storing the first vision-characteristic result and the second vision-characteristic result in the memory; performing a first comparison between the first vision-characteristic result and the second vision-characteristic result; and outputting a first message based at least in part on the first comparison.

22. The computer-readable medium of claim 21, wherein the information processor is in a mobile electronic device that includes a display, wherein the first vision analysis is a visual-field test, and wherein the method further includes: outputting to the display a temporally spaced sequence of light spots to a plurality of different locations on the display, and eliciting and receiving user input from the patient based on the patient’s perception of the outputted sequence of light spots.

23. The computer-readable medium of claim 21, wherein the method further includes: eliciting and receiving user information from the patient, wherein the user information includes treatment data associated with an eye treatment performed on the eye of the patient, and wherein the first message includes an alert that indicates the patient is to undergo the eye treatment.

24. The computer-readable medium of claim 21, wherein the method further includes: generating an indication that reminds the patient to undergo the first vision analysis at each time of a preselected time schedule.

25. The computer-readable medium of claim 21, wherein the method further includes: generating an indication that reminds the patient to undergo the first vision analysis at a preselected time schedule, and wherein the alarm is a verbalized message.

26. The computer-readable medium of claim 21, wherein the first vision analysis includes a color- vision test.

27. The computer-readable medium of claim 21, wherein the first vision analysis includes a visual-acuity test.

28. The computer-readable medium of claim 21, wherein the first vision analysis includes a contrast-sensitivity test.

29. The computer-readable medium of claim 21, wherein the method further includes: transmitting the first vision-characteristic result and the second vision-characteristic result to a remote server.

30. The computer-readable medium of claim 21, wherein the method further includes: performing a second vision analysis on the eye of the patient at a third time in order to produce a third vision-characteristic result; performing the second vision analysis on the eye of the patient again at a fourth time in order to produce a fourth vision-characteristic result; storing the third vision-characteristic result and the fourth vision-characteristic result in the memory; performing a second comparison between the third vision-characteristic result and the fourth vision-characteristic result; and generating a second message for the patient based at least in part on the second comparison.

31. A system for monitoring vision characteristics of an eye of a patient, wherein the system includes an application that executes on a personal electronic device, wherein the personal electronic device includes a processor, a memory operatively coupled to the processor, and a user interface operatively coupled to the processor, the application comprising: an output driver that executes on the processor and causes output of a transient light pattern to an eye of a patient; a response unit that executes on the processor and is configured to receive an indication of a response of the patient to a perception by the patient of the visually perceptible light pattern; an assessment module that executes on the processor, wherein the assessment module is configured to perform a first vision analysis on the eye of the patient at a first temporal moment in order to produce a first vision- characteristic result, wherein the assessment module is further configured to perform the first vision analysis on the eye of the patient at a second temporal moment in order to produce a second vision-characteristic result, wherein the assessment module is further configured to store the first vision- characteristic result and the second vision-characteristic result in the memory, wherein the assessment module is further configured to perform a first comparison between the first vision-characteristic result and the second vision- characteristic result, and wherein the user interface is configured to output a first message based at least in part on the first comparison.

32. The system of claim 31, further comprising: the processor, the memory operatively coupled to the processor, and the user interface.

33. The system of claim 31, wherein the message is a diagnosis of an eye malady of the patient.

34. The system of claim 31, wherein the message is an indication of a change in relative to a prior diagnosis of an eye malady of the patient.