EYE OWN A BUSINESS

Strategies for Boosting Second Pair Sales

In this episode, Dr. Steve Vargo speaks with Johann Van Zyl, Business Development Manager at Younger Optics. They discuss the vital role of second pair sales in the profitability of independent optical practices. Johan shares insights on effective communication strategies for both doctors and opticians, the importance of understanding patient needs, and how independent practices can learn from the success of corporate optometry. They also explore the role of discounts, the significance of dedicated sunwear sections, and how to educate patients about specialty lenses to enhance their visual experience. 
 
Find more information about how IDOC can help grow your practice at Optometry Practice Management & Alliance | IDOC

From Pain to Profit: Integrating Migraine Solutions into your Practice

In this episode, Dr. Steve Vargo interviews Dr. Allie Markowski, an optometrist specializing in migraine management using Avulux lenses. Dr. Markowski shares her journey of incorporating this technology to help patients suffering from migraines and light sensitivity, drawing from her own experience as a migraine sufferer. The discussion covers how to effectively integrate a migraine subspecialty into an optometry practice, emphasizing patient communication, staff training, and the potential for both improved patient outcomes and practice profitability. The episode highlights the benefits of differentiating a practice through specialized care and offers insights on how to get started with Avulux lenses. 

Achieving Success Without Vision Plans: An Optometry Practice Case Study

In this episode, Dr. Steve Vargo engages in a deep conversation with Dr. Bart Higley, an IDOC member and owner of New England Eyeworks, to explore the story of his highly successful optometry practice. Dr. Higley shares insights on how he has never accepted vision plans, highlighting the benefits of operating a cash-pay model, focusing on quality of care, and emphasizing the importance of brand and patient experience. The discussion touches on metrics, marketing strategies, and managing patient expectations, offering valuable advice for practice owners contemplating a similar path. 
 
Learn more about how IDOC can help your practice at Optometry Practice Management & Alliance | IDOC

Reducing Contact Lens Dropouts: Strategies for Success

In this episode, special guest Dr. Scott Moscow, Clinical Director at Roswell Eye Clinic, shares insights on preventing contact lens dropouts and reigniting interest in contact lenses among patients. The discussion covers the benefits of contact lenses for both patients and practices, methods to increase contact lens capture rates, and the importance of consistent staff training. The episode also explores how to address common patient complaints about contact lenses, the business impact of fitting more patients with contact lenses, and innovative strategies for effectively presenting contact lenses to patients. 
 
Learn more at Optometry Practice Management & Alliance | IDOC
 

Revving Up Revenues with Driver Intelligence Lenses

In this episode, Dr. Steve Vargo interviews Robert Rivera from Shamir about their advanced lens technology aimed at enhancing driving safety and comfort. Rivera, who has extensive experience in optics, explains the features of Shamir’s Driver Intelligence lenses, including special nighttime myopia correction and advanced AR coating to reduce visual noise. They discuss how these specialty lenses can differentiate optical practices and drive sales by addressing specific needs of patients. Rivera emphasizes the importance of product knowledge and patient engagement, suggesting methods for opticians and optometrists to introduce and market these lenses effectively.  
 
Learn more about IDOC: Optometry Practice Management & Alliance | IDOC

From Hunting to Fishing to Golf: Meeting the Needs of Your Outdoor Enthusiasts

In this episode, Dr. Steve Vargo interviews Norm Kester, founder of the outdoor lifestyle brand RLVNT. Launched in 2019, RLVNT specializes in eyewear designed to meet the unique needs of outdoor activities such as hunting, fishing, and golf. Norm discusses the unmet demand in the market for specialized eyewear and how his products fill that gap. The conversation covers relevant statistics about the outdoor activity market, the innovative features of their eyewear, including UV and screen-view technology, and the importance of understanding and catering to patients' passions. The episode concludes with recommendations on how optometry practices can integrate and promote specialized eyewear solutions to better serve their patients. 
Learn more at Optometry Practice Management & Alliance | IDOC

Leverage Google Ads to Grow Your Practice

In this episode, host Dr. Steve Vargo dives into the intricacies of digital advertising, specifically focusing on Google Ads, to help practice owners increase visibility and attract more patients. Dr. Vargo is joined by Onyé Anyanwu, Senior Marketing Strategist at IDOC, who offers detailed insights into creating effective Google Ads campaigns. Key topics include keyword research, optimizing ad copy, tracking performance metrics, and understanding the future trends like AI in digital marketing. This episode is a valuable resource for anyone looking to enhance their practice’s marketing strategies. 
 
Learn more about Optometry Marketing Services: https://optometrymarketingservices.com/

Developing a Successful Dry Eye Clinic on a Budget

In this episode with Dr. Shane Swatts of Eastern Virginia Eye Associates and Riley Azevedo, marketing manager at Science Based Health, the focus is on helping practice owners develop successful dry eye specialties without significant upfront investments. Dr. Swatts discusses his diverse career, including working with professional athletes and his transition to specializing in dry eye treatments. Emphasizing the importance of foundational home therapy, Dr. Swatts talks about practical strategies like using a slit lamp, stains, and minimal but effective tools like meibography and slit lamp cameras for diagnosing and treating dry eye. Riley Azevedo contributes insights on integrating nutraceuticals and highlights the necessity of effective internal branding and marketing. Both guests underscore the importance of patient education, persistent follow-ups, and setting realistic expectations for treatments. The episode also touches on the future of dry eye management, emphasizing the roles of AI and proactive strategies in enhancing patient care. 
 
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Find more information about how IDOC can help your practice: Optometry Practice Management & Alliance | IDOC

From Insurance to Independence: Creating a Premium Practice and Work-Life Harmony

Dr. Susan Elizondo shares her journey of transforming her practice into a private pay model and focusing on high-end optical services. By dropping insurance plans and offering a premium experience, she has increased her revenue per patient and created a practice that aligns with her values and goals. 
Learn more about IDOC: Optometry Practice Management & Alliance | IDOC

ChatGPT is a Free Employee

Artificial intelligence can’t replace eyecare providers (not yet anyway), but it can certainly make our work lives easier. In this episode, we shine a spotlight on ChatGPT – a remarkable tool that harnesses AI to generate human-like text, images, and conversational dialogue. We'll share specific examples of how ChatGPT can simplify tasks and workflows in an eyecare practice, potentially saving you countless hours of work each week.  
The future is here! With the help of AI technology, you can take working smarter, not harder, to a new level.