Thanks Brian, for adding your knowledge about the differences between the two devices as well as all the background information. I knew I could count on you.

I would hope that any office that puts the VELscope into use is fully trained in vizual and palpation examinations as well. Your point about being able to diffentiate between normal and abnormal is well taken. One has to decide when a biopsy is needed and this has to be based on clinical as well as VELscope results.

When we started using the ViziLite system as well as the switch to the VELscope, we did it for the pure purpose of using it as a diagnostic aid and not for profit. We also decided that we would charge only enough to cover our costs. I know that there are offices charging as much as $65 for these exams. We started the ViziLite at $25 and have continued the VELscope at $25. I think that the combination of my history with oral cancer (which most patients are told about) as well as the small fee, have been the reason why I personally have had only 2 patients refuse to have the VELscope used.

I applaud Barbara for all that she does for early detection (and OCF) and know that her educational seminar in my office went a long way in helping my staff and me feel more confident in the way we do oral cancer screenings.


Jerry