New This Week
New Technologies–and Opportunities–in Eyewear: Sports
Andrew Karp, group editor Lenses and Technology for the Jobson Optical Group, describes new eyewear with computerized components. Part 1 in this series shows high-tech sports eyewear that appeals to serious athletes, as well as active, tech-savvy enthusiasts. Featuring these products–and guiding patients through options and visual challenges–presents new opportunities for eyecare professionals. >>READ MORE>>
Practice Management
Reliable Patient Records: Patient Care, Practice Protection
By Pamela Miller, OD, FAAO, JD
Comprehensive record keeping of all patient interactions ensures topnotch care for your patients—and it protects your practice legally. Here are pointers on creating a strong record-keeping system. >>READ MORE>>
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Software Solutions/EHR
Transition to EHR: Educate, Train…and Optimize
By Gregory D. Foley, OD, FAAO
Effective transitioning to electronic records requires doctor and staff education and training. Work with your EHR vendor to optimize the technology. >>READ MORE>>
Finances
Track Your COG: Manage Well for Profitability
By Ken Krivacic, OD, MBA
Tracking and managing your cost of goods is a key to practice profitability. Good planning lets you supply patients with the products they need and profit from your inventory investment. >>READ MORE>>
ROB Fast Fact
How Many of Your Patients Know What Digital Eye Fatigue Is?
You have some digital eye fatigue syndrome education to deliver to patients. Seventy-two percent of patients are not even familiar with the term “digital eye fatigue,” according to The Vision Council’s VisionWatch Digital Eye Fatigue Syndrome report. Those patients with children will also need an education on the impact of the condition on their children’s eyes, as 37 percent of patients with children say they are not concerned about it. Interest in digital eye fatigue syndrome in children, however, may be growing. Forty-seven percent say they are somewhat concerned about the condition affecting their children and 16 percent say they are very concerned.
Click HERE to read more from Review of Optometric Business professional editors Carole Burns, OD, FCOVD, and Mark Wright, OD, FCOVD, on educating patients, and especially those with children, on the risk of digital eye fatigue syndrome.
In Brief
iMatrix Launches Web Marketing Services for ODs and Dentists
Internet Matrix, Inc. (iMatrix) announced its expansion into online marketing for optometrists and dentists. iMatrix, based in San Diego’s Sorrento Valley, revealed that it will now offer optometric and dental web marketing solutions that include professionally designed web sites, social media management, video marketing, PPC advertising, and their advanced SEO service called Dominator. According to a company spokesperson, the new online marketing services are designed to equip optometrists and dentists with the tools needed to reach a broader audience of potential patients online and increase local market share.
Transitions Optical Unveils New Consumer Web Site to Serve as Guide to Its Products
Transitions Optical is providing an enhanced user experience and more in-depth education on the Transitions family of products via its re-launched Transitions.com web site. Applying insights gained through consumer feedback and tracking studies, the site features a detailed breakdown on each Transitions lens product, fresh imagery and greater usability, including a way for consumers to search for an eyecare professional who carries the lens brands that best fit their interests.
ROB Poll Results
Most ROB Readers “Barely” Involved in Management of Optical Dispensary
Asked how much involvement they have in the management of their optical dispensary, 44 percent of ROB readers say they have “barely” any involvement, leaving nearly all management of the optical to opticians. Thirty-eight percent say they have a low amount of involvement, simply reviewing the product purchases chosen by opticians. On the other hand, 19 percent say they have a high level of involvement in optical dispensary management choosing all inventory and even placement on the frame board and use of POS materials.
