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CHICAGO—Visibly Inc., the virtual vision test technology company based here, has announced that college students can get their eyes checked free of charge through Visibly's online vision test. The test provides “a quick and easy way for students to stay healthy while attending school,” the announcement noted. Visibly, formerly known as Opternative, had withdrawn its online refraction test from the market after an August 2019 Class 2 Recall notice was issued by the FDA, as VMAIL reported. But the tech company began offering a simpler type of visual acuity test in April after the FDA loosened restrictions on telehealth in response to the pandemic.

Visibly said in the recent announcement that it “currently … operates under the Enforcement Policy for Remote Ophthalmic Assessment and Monitoring Devices during the Coronavirus Disease (COVID-19) Public Health Emergency issued by the FDA in April 2020.”  

"We are excited to offer Visibly's anywhere, anytime virtual testing technology to all college students free of charge as a convenient way to maintain eye health while away from home," Visibly chief executive officer Brent Rasmussen said in the announcement.

"Whether in a dorm room or at the library, students can easily get their vision checked, allowing them to connect to a licensed doctor to make sure they are seeing at their optimal level. We understand that there are thousands of college students that are in a unique situation on campus right now and with the increase in online classes there is a significant strain on the eyes."

Visibly said it was the first advanced eyecare telehealth technology that allows consumers to get their eyes checked virtually. Within 24 hours of completing the test, a licensed eyecare professional delivers a valid prescription that can be used to purchase contacts or glasses from any retailer, Visibly said.

For more information on the test for college students, visit the Visibly website here.