Contact Lens Spectrum Supplements

Special Edition 2016

Contact Lens Spectrum

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C O N T A C T L E N S S P E C T R U M S P E C I A L E D I T I O N 2 0 1 6 c l s p e c t r u m . c o m 52 CONT ACT LENS PRACTICE PEARLS JA S O N R . M I L L E R, O D, M B A Dr. Miller is in a partnership private practice in Powell, Ohio, and is an adjunct faculty member for The Ohio State University College of Optometry. He has received honoraria for writing, speaking, acting in an advisory capacity, or research from Alcon, B+L, Revolution EHR, and Johnson & John- son Vision Care, Inc. You can reach him at drmiller@eyecarepowell.com. FOCUSING ON INNOVATION A recent Gallup poll revealed that 18% of all teens and adults currently wear contact lenses — an all-time high that was previously seen only in 2013. However, that same poll revealed that contact lens dropout is also on the rise. In fact, 24% of poll respondents said they were very or somewhat likely to discontinue contact lens wear. According to the poll, "demographic analysis suggests the primary hurdle to wearer retention are easing the adjust- ment problems of new users and addressing the multifocal correction of presbyopes." The good news is that recent improvements in contact lens technology, includ- ing new materials designed to improve vision, comfort, and hydration, and increase oxygen permeability, can ease the transition for new contact lens patients and solve discomfort is- sues for current wearers. And techno- logical advances in many designs now allow us to treat challenging and pre- viously unsuccessful contact lens fits. So, if you and your practice want to grow your contact lens business — and reduce dropout — focus on the latest innovations to help meet — perhaps even exceed — your patients' expectations. Create a Culture of Innovation To encourage new wearers and keep your current patients in contact lenses, create a culture of innovation by presenting the latest products. When scheduling the appoint- ment, be sure to mention contact lenses in some aspect. For example, ask if the patient is considering multi- focal contact lenses to help with his near vision if he's presbyopic. Then continue the discussion during the appointment. A staff member can discuss how your office utilizes the newest technology in contact lenses to provide the most comfortable and clearest vision available. As the eyecare professional, follow material than they previously tried. Always Exceed Expectations There are many things that can negatively affect our vision. Age, en- vironment, dry eyes, allergies, ocular and medical health changes are just a few of those things. There are also many outside forces that can chal- lenge contact lens comfort such as long days using digital devices. Contact lens technology is evolving rapidly to improve ocular surface health, provide better eyesight at multiple distances, and, most impor- tantly, to improve comfort. Innovative products create an op- portunity. I think we would all agree that new products, new materials, and new fitting modalities help satisfy patients. Additionally, new fits or refits can generate revenue. Just begin by having the contact lens conversation with each patient. CLS through with the recommendation during the exam. Be proactive and offer the newest specialty, 1-day, monthly, or multifocal lens that matches the patient's visual needs. Even if the patient is happy in his cur- rent lenses, there is always an oppor- tunity to improve his experience with the latest options. Lastly, set the stage for the next appointment. Although your patient may not be interested in switching lenses this time, that may change by his next appointment. The same holds true for patients who have never tried contact lenses or who have had a bad experience in the past. Chances are, contact lenses have changed since their last experience, and they may be happy with a different modality or C o n t a c t l e n s t e c h n ol o gy i s e v olv i n g r a p i d l y t o i m p r o v e o c u l a r s u r f a c e h e a lt h , b et t e r e y e s i g h t at m u lt i p l e d i st an c e s , an d m o st i mp o r t an t l y , to i m pr o v e c o m f o r t . U F P. 0 2 5 6 . U S A . 1 6

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