SANTA CLARA, Calif.—EyecareLive, based here, and Allergan, an AbbVie company, said they have reached an agreement to provide virtual consultations as an option to those patients suffering from symptoms of chronic dye eye disease. Beginning Tuesday (Jan. 5), individuals seeking information on Allergan's webpage for potential chronic dry eye disease treatment have the option to engage in a telehealth visit through EyecareLive, an announcement this week noted. It is estimated that 35 million adults are affected by chronic dry eye disease.

While many are forced to work from home and to rely on technology for meetings or social events, users can also turn to a virtual alternative for quick, convenient chronic dry eye disease care.

"At EyecareLive, we are continuously exploring opportunities that benefit our users and this symbiotic relationship will do just that," chief executive officer Raj Ramchandani said. "Patients will have access to dry eye care through a virtual consultation with an eyecare provider who can recommend appropriate treatment and eye doctors will be connected to new patients effortlessly."

If a user selects a virtual dry eye consultation on EyecareLive's platform, the user will be prompted to provide basic information and answer a few short questions regarding their symptoms to score the severity. Once the information is complete, an experienced eyecare provider will see the user during a same-day virtual appointment. The provider will have the opportunity to review the user's history, triage the user using video-chat and select an appropriate treatment plan.

"With these changing times, we are excited to bring patients suffering from chronic dry eye disease another option for which they can have a discussion with an eyecare professional,” Glen Curran, vice president, anterior segment, Allergan, said in the announcement.