Managed Care

Choosing Partnerships That Benefit Patients and the Practice

Dr. Steven Saba and a patient. Photo Credit: Dr. Saba.

By Steven Saba, OD

August 11, 2026

I did not expect to become a practice owner so early in my career, but the opportunity came together in a way that felt right. I spent a year as an associate in the practice before taking ownership, learning the operations, understanding the office culture and deciding whether it was the right fit. After about six months, I could see myself leading the practice. In March 2024, I purchased it and began building on what was already working while making it my own.

My initial focus was improving efficiency and enhancing the patient experience. I made renovations throughout the office, updated equipment and introduced new technology, including an Optos ultra-widefield retinal imaging device and a ZEISS IOL Master 500 to support myopia management. I also have a second exam lane ready for future expansion, allowing us to continue growing alongside our patients’ needs.

Decisions Centered on Patients

Every partnership I choose—from products and equipment to insurance participation—ultimately comes down to one question: How will it benefit my patients?

That mindset is one reason I chose to continue working with VSP Vision™ and participating in VSP Premier Edge™ after purchasing the practice. Even early in my ownership journey, I recognized the value these relationships bring to both patient care and practice success.

Patients with vision insurance like VSP^® are more likely to schedule routine eye exams, which is especially important for those who may not prioritize other healthcare visits. Regular exams allow us to monitor vision, track eye health over time and sometimes identify signs of broader health conditions before symptoms develop.

Visiting a Premier Edge location like ours also helps patients maximize their benefits while gaining access to special offers on frames, lenses, contacts and other vision care products. Premier Edge Partner Offers further enhance that value, making it easier for patients to move forward with the care and products that are right for them.

In addition, patients have access to the Premier Edge Promise, a worry-free eyewear guarantee that provides added peace of mind if unexpected issues arise after benefits have been used. Together, these offerings help create positive patient experiences, build trust and encourage patients to return to us for future care.

Resources to Help the Practice Grow

Premier Edge delivers meaningful value to the practice side of the business as well. Through rebates and business resources, we’ve been able to strengthen our visibility and continue growing.

One resource that made an immediate impact was Premier Edge Marketing Support. Marketing was not an area where I had extensive experience, so having guidance on where to begin was incredibly valuable. The team provided a clear action plan to improve our website, Google Business Profile and VSP practice listing.

Because many of our new patients find us through the VSP website, enhancing our online profile was especially important. The marketing team helped us add photos, showcase our services and frame offerings and create a more welcoming, informative presence. The result has been increased visibility, stronger patient engagement and a noticeable increase in traffic to the practice website.

The Value of Ongoing Support

Marketing support is just one example of the value I’ve experienced through my relationship with VSP and Premier Edge. Whether it’s helping patients maximize their benefits, providing resources that support practice growth or sharing new opportunities to strengthen the business, the support extends well beyond any one project.

As a practice owner, every decision I make comes back to delivering the best possible experience for my patients. That’s why I continue to see value in my relationship with VSP and Premier Edge. By helping patients access the care they need and supporting my practice behind the scenes, they create benefits for everyone involved. As we continue to grow, that partnership helps us stay focused on what matters most: delivering exceptional care and creating a positive experience for every patient who walks through the door.

This article is sponsored by VSP

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