The doctor-optician relationship serves as a critical touchpoint in the continuum of eye care. A seamless collaboration between the optometrist and optician ensures not just accurate vision correction but also a holistic, patient-centered experience. In this engaging conversation between Dr. Darryl Glover and optician Sophia Pray, they unpack real-world strategies for strengthening this partnership, from intentional communication to mindful patient handoffs and personalized eyewear education. This article dives into the candid insights from the podcast, examining how strengthening the doctor-optician relationship can enhance every patient’s journey.

“What if I told you that the doctor-optician relationship is unmatched?” Dr. Glover opens the podcast with this powerful question, underscoring the foundational belief that collaboration is essential to achieving success in practice. Sophia Pray shares her journey into the optical field, highlighting that this partnership is built not only on clinical expertise but on mutual respect and understanding.

Sophia explains that this relationship is about shared values—being observant, intentional, and aligned in patient goals. For example, a technician or optician noticing a patient squinting or holding broken glasses can pass that information along to the doctor before the patient even enters the exam lane. This level of detail sets the tone for a proactive, informed consultation, underscoring the vital importance of this synergy.

A thriving doctor optician relationship requires intentional development. Dr. Glover urges colleagues to build strong rapport with every team member—front desk, technician, optician—because this trust impacts not only patient outcomes, but also the office culture and business success.

The patient handoff is not just a transition—it’s a critical moment of clarity and continuity. As Sophia notes, this begins even before the patient enters the exam room. Front desk staff and technicians should observe cues: Is the patient squinting? Holding broken glasses? Complaining of headaches? These insights form the groundwork for an intentional handoff.

Sophia emphasizes the importance of the doctor verbally recommending eyewear solutions. When doctors speak their prescription aloud during the handoff, it reinforces the importance and helps the patient take it seriously. Simply writing a recommendation on paper often leads to missed communication.

She also cautions against three common pitfalls:

The key takeaway? Be accurate but flexible. Use language like “I recommend progressive lenses” instead of prescribing a specific brand or model unless you’re confident it fits the patient’s needs and prescription.

Clear communication is the thread that binds the entire patient journey. As Sophia explains, everyone in the practice—from doctor to front desk—should understand the products being offered. It’s not just about clinical expertise; it’s about creating a cohesive language of care.

Dr. Glover and Sophia both stress that patients should never feel bounced between team members or left unsure of next steps. Optical communication means everyone is informed, aligned, and confident. That includes training doctors to know the capabilities and limitations of the lenses and frames they recommend.

Sophia illustrates how a doctor saying, “You need ProDesign frames,” can backfire if the frame doesn’t meet the patient’s Rx or anatomical needs. Instead, the doctor can say, “I recommend something with nose pads to help with placement,” allowing opticians the flexibility to choose what works best from available inventory.

Teamwork is more than a mantra—it’s an operating system. Sophia explains how teams that communicate, support each other, and share notes create better experiences for both patients and staff.

From identifying lens needs during intake to helping patients understand the value of progressives or photochromics, a team-first approach drives success. Sophia shares how even when a prescription doesn’t change, a simple offer—”Would you like to browse for a second pair or sunglasses today?”—can enhance care while respecting the patient’s budget.

Dr. Glover adds that when optometrists include their team in vendor training and lens discussions, everyone becomes more confident in educating patients. “You can’t prescribe what you don’t understand,” he notes.

Sophia has built a personal brand around being vibrant, authentic, and informative. She notes that while her social media may not always bring patients directly into her clinic, it inspires them to ask better questions and seek better products elsewhere.

“I’ve had people from around the world message me and say, ‘I got these Transitions lenses because of you.’ That’s impact.”

Dr. Glover adds that patients often arrive knowing what they want because they saw it on Instagram—whether it’s smart eyewear, photochromics, or high-fashion frames. This makes it crucial for doctors and opticians alike to align their in-office experience with what’s presented online. Consistency builds trust.

Enhancing the doctor optician relationship is not about reinventing the wheel—it’s about intentional communication, mutual respect, and shared learning. By embracing teamwork, committing to patient-centered care, and avoiding communication pitfalls, eye care professionals can deliver a seamless patient experience that drives both satisfaction and practice growth.

Ready to elevate your patient journey? Start with a conversation. Invite your opticians into your clinical world, and step into theirs. The difference will be profound.

For eye care professionals at any stage of their career, Dr. Adam Ramsey’s story serves as both a blueprint and a source of encouragement. His journey into building a private practice reveals not only the hard work behind entrepreneurship but also the power of faith, adaptability, and vision. From his childhood in Trinidad to serving his community in Palm Beach Gardens, Dr. Ramsey’s reflections on why I became an optometrist shed light on how personal experiences, persistence, and purpose can shape the most impactful careers in eye care. His story isn’t just about clinical success — it’s about becoming the kind of leader who moves the profession forward.

Dr. Ramsey didn’t start out knowing he’d be an optometrist. In fact, he considered becoming a veterinarian after a childhood love for animals led him to volunteer every Saturday at a local vet’s office. That commitment lasted two years, but it eventually revealed what he didn’t want — to work with animals that weren’t his own. The next potential path was physical therapy, which he explored through hands-on experience in clinics. But again, something was missing. He wanted to be the one engaging directly with patients, not just managing the charts.

The turning point came during a routine eye exam. He overheard his optometrist discussing a mid-day golf break with a business partner — a small but revealing detail. That simple moment sparked a realization: optometry offered freedom, flexibility, style, and service. It was the ideal fusion of business, fashion, and healthcare — all passions of his. That spark eventually ignited a fire. Dr. Ramsey pursued optometry with full force, becoming vice president of his university’s pre-optometry club and building a network before even entering school. This early exploration helped him define why I became an optometrist: to serve patients, control his career, and lead with authenticity.

Rather than rushing into ownership, Dr. Ramsey intentionally spent his early years working in as many settings as possible. He drove across South Florida, filling in at dozens of practices from Miami to Orlando. Each stop gave him new insights into practice flow, staff dynamics, optical merchandising, and patient interactions. He was observing and absorbing, constantly asking, “What would I do differently?”

This self-education stage was pivotal. It allowed him to see beyond the exam lane and into the mechanics of how successful practices operated — and failed. Rather than romanticizing ownership, he studied the business side: EHR systems, frame inventory, scheduling models, and staff culture. These strategic decisions laid the groundwork for his private practice, allowing him to design a system that reflected what he valued most: exceptional care, clear workflow, and growth potential. He wasn’t just preparing to open a clinic — he was preparing to run it like a CEO.

Dr. Ramsey’s first attempt at independence came with a major leap of faith. He transitioned from working full-time in a commercial setting to splitting his schedule — four days at a retail chain, two days at his own part-time office. As patients began to follow him and request more time, the vision of a fully independent practice became clearer.

Eventually, he took the plunge and devoted himself full-time to his private practice. But that first full day didn’t go as planned. He showed up ready to work and sat in silence for eight hours. No patients. No calls. Just the weight of uncertainty. Most professionals would panic — but Dr. Ramsey leaned into his faith. The very next day, he received a call that changed everything: a new opportunity to serve a tribal health system. The silence of Day 1 turned into a turning point. The lesson? Faith and consistency matter more than a packed schedule in the beginning.

The road to ownership was not paved with luck. Dr. Ramsey faced two significant setbacks that would have discouraged most young professionals. In one case, an independent optical partner pulled the plug on their collaboration days before opening — leaving him with a lease, equipment, and no patients. In another, a corporate-owned practice closed its doors despite his growing the business by 30% in under a year. Both closures came suddenly and without fault on his part. In fact, he was excelling.

Instead of giving up, he responded by filling his calendar with as many fill-in shifts as he could. He drove hundreds of miles a week, taking work wherever he could get it. He rebuilt. He reflected. And he kept going. These challenges ultimately made him more resilient and more focused on creating a sustainable business model. They were costly — emotionally and financially — but they became the backbone of his entrepreneurial grit. He realized that to build something that lasts, he’d need to stop relying on others to hold the door open. So, he built his own.

One of the most unconventional yet powerful chapters of Dr. Ramsey’s career came through a phone call from the Seminole Indian Reservation. They needed an optometrist to serve three remote locations. He accepted without hesitation. For three years, every Monday, he packed up staff, frames, and equipment, loaded up his wife’s car, and drove up to two hours each way. These weren’t glamour clinics — they were mobile extensions of trust.

He provided full-scope care, from refractions to ocular disease management, while building a loyal patient base. Many of those patients still travel hours to see him today. The work was exhausting but meaningful. It provided a critical revenue stream during the early growth phase of his practice and demonstrated his commitment to accessible care. Most importantly, it helped him fine-tune every detail of practice ownership — from transport logistics to off-site optical sales.

Today, Socialite Vision is a mature, mission-driven eye care brand. Formerly Iconic Eye Care, the practice has evolved to include advanced services such as headache and migraine management, dry eye treatment, myopia control, and specialty contact lens fittings. Dr. Ramsey’s approach isn’t just about treating vision — it’s about delivering an elevated experience.

What truly sets his model apart is scalability. He recently hired an associate, Dr. Charlton Butts, who now manages the clinic in his absence. That addition signaled a new chapter: Dr. Ramsey could step out of the clinic without sacrificing productivity or patient care. For any eye care professional wondering how to transition from “self-employed” to “business owner,” this is the benchmark. A business that works — even when you’re not there.

Behind all the hustle is a clear sense of purpose. Dr. Ramsey is driven by more than ambition — he’s anchored by family, faith, and legacy. His wife, Chrissy, is an accomplished engineer and supportive partner. His daughter, Layla, inspires his every move. Becoming a father added new urgency and meaning to his work. It also gave him clarity. The grind wasn’t just for personal success — it was to model resilience and possibility for his family and community.

His story is a reminder that why I became an optometrist isn’t just a question for interviews. It’s the foundation of a fulfilling career. It’s what keeps him grounded when challenges arise and focused when opportunities expand. His career — and his life — are about alignment. Doing work that matters, in a way that reflects who he is.

Dr. Ramsey’s journey is packed with lessons for students, new grads, and seasoned optometrists alike. The key isn’t just passion — it’s strategy.

If you’re considering private practice, study before you leap. Shadow other doctors. Note what works. Build relationships with vendors and mentors. Document every idea.

Once you open your doors, show up even when no one else does. That discipline becomes your differentiator. Take smart risks. Know that not every opportunity will work out — but every failure will teach you something.

Most importantly, define your “why.” Let it guide your decisions, your branding, your hiring, and your long-term vision. Because building a private practice isn’t just about patients — it’s about building a life that reflects your values.

Whether you’re an awkward OD or a seasoned professional, learning to master the doctor-optical handoff can transform the entire patient experience journey.

In today’s fast-paced exam lanes, the art of the doctor optical handoff is more than just a procedural baton pass—it’s a powerful tool to enhance the patient experience and build lifelong loyalty. In this episode of the Defocus Media podcast, Dr. Darryl Glover sits down with Dr. Rachel Simpson to discuss how genuine conversation, intentional presence, and patient-centered strategies can enhance care.

Whether you’re an awkward OD or a seasoned professional, this discussion highlights how personal connection and authentic handoffs can have a lasting impact on both patient satisfaction and clinical outcomes.

The doctor’s optical handoff represents a defining moment in patient care. It’s the culmination of the clinical exam and the beginning of a solution-based journey that extends into the optical realm. Yet many providers treat this moment as a formality, missing the opportunity to connect deeper with the patient.

Dr. Glover shares that the key to a great handoff is not just about what you say, but how you make the patient feel. “Your team should be an extension of you,” he explains. The handoff is not doctor-to-staff—it’s doctor-to-patient. That distinction redefines the mindset behind how recommendations are communicated.

This moment should reaffirm the doctor’s clinical judgment while empowering the patient to take the next step in their care journey with confidence.

Dr. Simpson’s journey into optometry is as compelling as her insight. A former theater major and professional actress, she spent years auditioning, performing, and traveling in children’s theater. That background might seem unrelated, but it shaped how she now engages with patients.

“I used to perform for audiences I couldn’t see,” she reflects. “Now, in the exam lane, I’m fully present—connecting with just one person at a time, and that matters.”

The ability to read the room, remain emotionally aware, and adjust your presence to suit the patient is a theatrical skill with clinical applications. Dr. Simpson brings that awareness into the exam room, especially in her optical handoffs. When providers recognize each interaction as a unique scene—with the patient as the central character—the conversation becomes more human, and the handoff becomes an invitation to continue their care.

Dr. Simpson admits that small talk doesn’t come naturally to her: “I just don’t have that ‘how’s your day’ gene.” But she recognizes its value in setting a tone of empathy and connection.

Dr. Glover explains how small talk is foundational to the doctor-patient relationship. “It’s about building trust. You’re not just prescribing glasses; you’re prescribing care.”

He suggests focusing on observable cues—like shoes or accessories—and asking simple lifestyle questions. These small details can reveal important context about how a patient uses their vision and what solutions might best suit them. From a favorite hiking trip to the brand of glasses they love, every detail informs a more personalized recommendation.

Dr. Simpson adds that one of her go-to questions is about footwear comfort. That brief exchange helps her learn just enough about a patient’s preferences, lifestyle, or even occupation. While she initially thought those conversations didn’t lead anywhere, she now realizes they’re the gateway to more insightful care.

Dr. Glover introduces what he calls the Two-Minute Drill: a strategy where the first two minutes of patient interaction are spent focusing solely on connection. That means no chart, no data—just a human-to-human conversation.

But the secret to this drill lies in preparation. It begins before the doctor ever enters the room. The front desk team, the technician, even the optical staff all contribute to gathering personal details. Where is the patient going this weekend? Did they mention trouble with a certain task?

“By the time I walk into the exam lane,” says Dr. Glover, “I already know what I want to talk about.”

Dr. Simpson agrees and reflects that she hasn’t always empowered her team to do this. But after the conversation, she realizes the potential. “They should be extensions of me,” she notes. Empowering staff to gather context helps the doctor deliver a more targeted and empathetic handoff.

A handoff isn’t just clinical closure—it’s an opportunity to demonstrate that the doctor listened.

Dr. Glover explains how the lifestyle cues revealed in small talk often map directly to prescribing decisions. If a patient is headed to the mountains for the weekend, he knows to discuss sunglasses and artificial tears. If they mention long drives, they may be referring to anti-fatigue lenses.

Dr. Simpson reflects on how easy it is to miss these prescribing opportunities when communication is too focused on data. But by taking just a minute to ask lifestyle questions—and by leveraging the team to collect those details—the optical handoff becomes seamless.

Even a comment about shoes can connect to a recommendation. Dr. Glover suggests using designer cues to guide patients in selecting frames that align with their brand affinity. When care feels custom, patients respond with more trust and higher satisfaction.

In a modern practice, patient trust can begin well before the first hello.

Dr. Glover emphasizes the power of digital presence. On social media, he shares his love for food, family, and faith. Patients walk into the clinic already feeling a connection. “They’ve seen themselves in me before we even meet,” he says.

That pre-established rapport makes the optical handoff easier because the patient has already bought into the experience. It shortens the gap between the stranger and the provider. And more importantly, it frames the handoff not as a transaction, but as the continuation of a trusted relationship.

As the episode wraps, Dr. Simpson reflects on her own experience in optometry school. While the intensity of academic demands often left little room for small talk, she urges students to begin practicing those skills early.

“There’s always something to talk about,” she says. “And it’s easier to learn that in school than on the job.”

Dr. Glover agrees and reminds students that their past experiences—whether in retail, food service, or theater—can give them an edge. Learning how to connect with people is a clinical skill. And just like retinoscopy, it gets better with practice.

A strong doctor optical handoff isn’t about efficiency—it’s about impact. It’s about closing the loop of care in a way that feels personal, thoughtful, and specific to the patient’s lifestyle.

By using the Two-Minute Drill, leveraging team communication, and viewing each interaction as a relationship (not a routine), eye care professionals can elevate every touchpoint.

Dr. Simpson puts it best: “I’m performing in the lane—but I’m present.” And in that presence, trust is built.

In today’s ever-evolving healthcare landscape, workplace culture has become more than a buzzword—it’s a measurable driver of patient satisfaction, staff retention, and clinical excellence. For eye care professionals, cultivating a strong, trust-driven culture isn’t just good for morale—it’s foundational to providing quality care.

In a recent episode of the Four-Eyed Professor podcast, Dr. Chris Lievens sat down with Amy Bland and Tom Chwe, co-founders of Curo Research, to break down what truly defines workplace culture in optometric settings. With a focus on leadership in healthcare and improving team dynamics in clinical settings, this conversation offers a roadmap for building high-functioning teams—even in the face of tough personalities or uninspired leadership.

Workplace culture isn’t determined by dress codes or catered lunches—it’s defined by how people feel when they show up to work.

Amy Bland shared her journey as a research director, noting, “The more I took care of my team, the more they took care of me.” Her team culture became so attractive that people outside her department were actively requesting to join. The secret? Trust, accountability, and clear expectations.

In eye care, where clinicians often operate under intense schedules and patient demands, culture must be consciously built—not left to chance.

“You can teach someone to manage tasks, but leadership is about inspiration,” said Dr. Lievens.

Tom Chwe echoed this sentiment: “Creating a good workplace culture starts with the leader—and it trickles down.”

In healthcare, particularly in private practice or hospital-based optometry, many doctors are placed in leadership roles without any formal training. The discussion emphasized that leadership in healthcare is a skill set that can—and should—be developed. From books like Extreme Ownership by Jocko Willink to The Five Dysfunctions of a Team by Patrick Lencioni, there are tools to help doctors grow beyond clinical expertise and into cultural stewards.

At the heart of a healthy workplace culture is trust—but it’s not always soft and fuzzy. Accountability plays a major role.

Amy emphasized that accountability should be viewed not as punishment but as empowerment. “Where there’s trust, there’s vulnerability,” she explained. “And when leaders are willing to be vulnerable, it gives everyone else permission to be honest and accountable.”

This is especially important in team dynamics in clinical settings, where efficiency, role clarity, and peer support are critical to delivering consistent patient care.

What do you do when the culture goes south?

Two tough scenarios were discussed: dealing with a toxic leader and working alongside a “bad apple” team member. Tom recommends starting with empathy and curiosity. “A lot of times, these people have unmet needs. The first step is to get to know them and understand what they’re missing.”

Amy added that you don’t need to be in a formal leadership role to influence others. “Be the change in your own corner of the room. When you model the culture you want to see, others will follow—or self-select out.”

This insight is critical for young optometrists or students entering practice: your behavior influences culture whether you have a title or not.

Leadership without self-awareness is like examining a patient without a slit lamp—it misses the depth.

“Self-awareness is the foundation of emotional intelligence,” said Tom. “You have to understand your emotional regulation and how it affects others.”

In clinical team dynamics, doctors who are unaware of their impact often unknowingly create tension. This can manifest as high turnover, poor patient handoffs, and disengaged staff—even when clinical outcomes appear fine on the surface.

Encouraging leaders to regularly seek feedback and reflect on their interactions is a key part of sustainable culture development.

Amy and Tom highlighted a powerful study by Dr. Kim Cameron, which found the number one predictor of successful leadership wasn’t IQ, training, or tenure—it was positive relational energy.

“When you walk into a room,” said Tom, “do people feel inspired and energized—or drained?”

Leaders who bring emotional consistency, optimism, and a sense of collaboration set the tone for the entire team. This presence is often what separates a stressed-out office from a high-performing, resilient one.

The team offered clear, actionable steps that every eye care professional can take to improve culture:

Improving workplace culture in eye care isn’t a one-and-done initiative. It’s a mindset, a commitment, and a daily practice. From trust to vulnerability, from emotional intelligence to decisive accountability, the road to a high-performing team is paved with intention.

As Amy Bland wisely put it, “There are no bad teams—only bad leaders.”

Whether you’re a student, a new graduate, or a seasoned OD, the time to start leading with presence and positivity is now. Culture is not just built by executives—it’s shaped by every interaction, every day.

In today’s evolving eye care landscape, practice management is no longer an optional skill—it’s essential. From navigating retail pressures to elevating patient experiences, eye care professionals are reimagining how they lead and grow their practices. Enter the Play Chess Not Checkers Podcast, hosted by Dr. Adam Ramsey and powered by Defocus Media. This series is designed for professionals who want more than just surface-level insights—they want a blueprint for success. As one of the newest additions to the leading optometry podcast network, it brings strategy, depth, and actionable tools for real-world success.

Practice management in eye care has historically been viewed through a narrow lens: scheduling, billing, and operations. But the modern reality is far more complex. Today’s successful eye care practice requires an understanding of branding, patient psychology, retail innovation, and leadership. Dr. Adam Ramsey argues that eye doctors must stop “spinning and grinning” and start thinking like CEOs.

He shares how his passion for practice management began at Southern College of Optometry, where he discovered that the business side of eye care was the real secret sauce to long-term fulfillment. Whether you’re in private practice, corporate settings, or academia, these principles apply universally.

The Play Chess Not Checkers Podcast is not just another optometry podcast. It’s a strategic masterclass. Dr. Ramsey created this platform to fill a gap in the conversation—a space where real, unfiltered discussions around practice growth and professional identity could flourish.

From how to build a patient journey to optimizing the sales of contact lenses, every episode offers tools that transcend practice models. Dr. Ramsey draws from his experience in LensCrafters, ophthalmology, private practice, and consulting to create a resource that supports doctors at all stages of their careers.

Dr. Ramsey’s own practice, Socialite Vision, is a living case study in premium patient experience. From a signature scent curated with Aroma360 to intentional design changes like genuine leather seating, every decision is made with the patient’s emotional journey in mind.

This is practice management at its most sophisticated—where even touch, smell, and visual elements are calibrated to create lasting impressions. He challenges doctors to regularly audit their patient experience, asking questions like: “What do patients see, smell, and feel the moment they walk through the door?”

The metaphor in the podcast title isn’t accidental. Playing chess instead of checkers means thinking several moves ahead. Dr. Ramsey emphasizes that sustainable growth is not built on quick wins but on long-term planning and adaptation.

Whether it’s understanding bonus structures in commercial settings or designing a premium retail space, the idea is the same: strategy wins. Practice owners and employed doctors alike must understand their numbers, their workflow, and their competitive positioning.

One of the standout themes in the Play Chess Not Checkers Podcast is the multifaceted nature of being a modern eye care professional. As Dr. Ramsey puts it, “I’m multifaceted. I just change the hat depending on the day.”

His schedule involves clinical care, parenting, public speaking, consulting, and leading Black EyeCare Perspective—an organization advancing diversity in optometry. This juggling act isn’t just impressive; it’s instructive. Doctors must learn to compartmentalize, delegate, and lead with intention. It’s about showing up fully in each role, without burning out.

The Play Chess Not Checkers Podcast is more than compelling content—it’s a call to action. Whether you’re a student dreaming of private practice or a seasoned OD refining your brand, Dr. Ramsey’s insights offer a roadmap grounded in experience, strategy, and authenticity.

Ultimately, practice management is about more than profits; it’s about purpose. And if this podcast is any indication, the future of eye care has never looked more strategic.

In Episode 41 of the Depth Perception Podcast, hosts Svetlana and Douglas Akidi are joined by Dr. Jasdeep Singh and Dr. Nadia Afkhami to unpack “What I Wish I Knew: Optometry School.” They discuss their pre‐school expectations versus the reality of full‐day lecture schedules, hands‐on clinical training, and the intense board‐prep timeline. Along the way, they share candid reflections on unexpected expenses (equipment, board exams, housing), the mental health challenges—especially during COVID—and the critical role of peer support, mentorship, and self‐care in navigating those four pivotal years.

Optometry school combines academic rigor, financial challenges, and emotional hurdles—but it also fosters lifelong friendships, professional mentorships, and a strong sense of purpose. By leveraging the lessons Jasdeep , Nadia, Svetlana, and Douglas share:

Success in optometry school hinges not only on academic prowess but on proactive planning, emotional resilience, and strong community ties. Start these strategies now—your future self will thank you.

On this episode of the Defocus Media Podcast, Dr. Darryl Glover welcomes Dr. Adam Bryan—a seasoned optometrist, entrepreneur, and former owner of a multi-million-dollar practice in Holly Springs, North Carolina. Together, they take a practical deep dive into what it actually takes to build, grow, and eventually sell a profitable eye care practice.

Dr. Bryan shares not only his successes but the hard-earned lessons that shaped his approach to business ownership. From the day-to-day operational details to the mindset shift required to run a high-performing clinic, this conversation provides a blueprint for optometrists looking to elevate their clinical care and their bottom line.

Throughout the interview, Dr. Bryan repeatedly returned to three foundational principles that defined his success:

These pillars, when integrated thoughtfully into daily practice management, create a sustainable model for long-term growth and financial stability.

Dr. Bryan doesn’t mince words—if you don’t understand your P & L, you’re running your business blind.

The P & L is more than just a document reviewed at tax time. It’s a tool for diagnosis and strategic planning. Dr. Bryan recommends reviewing financials monthly, using them to measure growth, identify waste, and track efficiency.

Benchmarks to consider:

Dr. Bryan emphasized that while not every doctor wants to do their own bookkeeping, every owner should be fluent in their numbers and ask tough questions. The financial health of your practice depends on it.

Too many optometrists view vision plans as a necessary evil. Dr. Bryan encourages a different approach—treat them as marketing vehicles that bring patients in and establish long-term loyalty.

He argues that rejecting vision plans out of frustration may lead to missed opportunities. These plans often give you access to patients who wouldn’t otherwise enter your practice. From there, it’s up to you to build value.

Strategic ways to leverage vision plans:

Vision plans are not about the reimbursement—they are about access. Use them to develop relationships that lead to comprehensive care.

The exam room is one of the most influential spaces in any eye care practice. According to Dr. Bryan, what happens in those few minutes can either inspire patient action—or leave revenue on the table.

Prescribing from the chair is not a sales tactic; it’s a patient care imperative. When done with authenticity and purpose, it builds trust, elevates satisfaction, and reinforces the doctor-patient relationship.

Dr. Bryan’s strategy includes:

Patients are far more likely to follow through when they understand how a product will enhance their daily life. That education starts in the exam room—with you.

Running a profitable practice requires more than clinical skill. Dr. Bryan outlined several operational systems that allowed him to scale without sacrificing care.

Key practices include:

These behind-the-scenes details—though often overlooked—were essential to keeping the practice profitable and efficient.

Whether you’re running an independent clinic, working within a group setting, or preparing for ownership, the principles discussed in this episode are both accessible and actionable.

The optometric landscape is evolving. Reimbursement is tightening, competition is growing, and patient expectations are rising. To succeed, doctors must think beyond the phoropter and engage with the business side of care.

Dr. Bryan’s story is proof that profitability and exceptional care can coexist. But it doesn’t happen by chance. It requires clarity, consistency, and a willingness to learn from those who’ve already paved the way.

In this episode of the Eye-Q Podcast, host Dr. Rudrani Banik welcomes cataract and cornea specialist Dr. Kira Nuis for a deep dive into everything clinicians need to know about lens opacities—from the molecular changes that cloud vision with age to the surprising risk factors in children. They’ll explore how ultraviolet light accelerates cataract formation, when to move from watchful waiting to surgical intervention, and the step-by-step of modern cataract extraction (including laser vs. phaco techniques). You’ll also learn Dr. Nuis’s tips for selecting the perfect intraocular lens, weighing out-of-pocket costs, and setting patients up for lifelong eye health, ensuring you leave with actionable insights to transform your practice and your patients’ lives.

Cataracts are opacities of the eye’s crystalline lens that scatter and block light, progressively degrading image quality on the retina. Although nearly everyone will develop some degree of lens clouding with age, the impact on vision varies—from minor reductions in contrast to severe visual impairment. Patients often describe blurry vision, difficulty reading, glare around lights, or colors appearing muted, akin to looking through a fogged window.

Lens proteins gradually denature and aggregate as part of the natural aging process. Beginning in the early 50s, subtle changes in lens shape can alter refractive error; by the early 60s, microscopic opacities often appear, though they may not be visually significant at first. Over the years or decades, these opacities enlarge and coalesce, leading to symptomatic cataracts. In the United States, the average age for cataract surgery is about 67–68, reflecting both the biology of lens aging and the timing of functional impairment.

Ultraviolet (UV) radiation promotes oxidative damage in the lens. A landmark study of Chesapeake Bay fishermen—who spent decades unprotected under intense sunlight—showed a two-fold increase in cataract prevalence compared to controls. Thus, UV-blocking eyewear is crucial for prevention. In contrast, current evidence does not implicate blue-light from screens in permanent lens damage, though it may contribute to digital eye strain.

Yes. Pediatric cataracts may be:

Fortunately, modern microsurgical techniques allow safe cataract removal and IOL implantation even in infants, restoring vision during critical developmental windows.

Management hinges on symptom burden and functional impact:

Selection depends on lifestyle needs, ocular anatomy, and patient goals:

Annual eye exams are as vital as dental check-ups and preventive screenings. Encourage patients to:

Burnout in eyecare is no longer a silent issue. With over half of optometrists reporting symptoms of professional fatigue, the field is facing a mounting crisis that affects not only clinicians but also the quality of patient care. In a powerful episode of the Defocus Media podcast, Dr. Jennifer Lyerly and Dr. Kaleb Abbott, Assistant Professor at the University of Colorado School of Medicine, unpack findings from a groundbreaking nationwide burnout study, Insights into burnout among optometrists in the United States: findings from a nationwide survey, involving over 1,400 optometrists. Their insights shine a light on operational realities, the mental health challenges of modern optometrists, and data-driven ways forward.

The conversation begins with Dr. Abbott sharing his personal journey—being booked six months out in a busy dry eye clinic while also juggling research and clinical trials. Feeling overwhelmed, he decided to investigate burnout in optometry and launched a large-scale study. The findings were staggering: 53.6% of optometrists reported burnout, compared to 37.8% of ophthalmologists pre-pandemic.

This growing concern resonates beyond optometry. According to JAMA Internal Medicine, nearly 48% of physicians report burnout, and over 26% plan to reduce clinical hours or leave their jobs. Burnout in healthcare isn’t just a personal issue—it leads to lower job satisfaction, increased turnover, malpractice risks, and decreased quality of care.

Burnout affects practitioners across the career spectrum, but mid-career optometrists—those practicing between 5 to 29 years—showed the highest levels. New graduates and professionals with over 30 years of experience were less likely to feel burned out. Optometrists reported higher rates than ophthalmologists, in part due to less variety in daily work and higher demands in customer-facing roles.

Burnout isn’t evenly distributed across all work environments. The highest levels were reported among doctors working in:

Meanwhile, academic optometry and private practices saw the lowest levels of burnout. These environments often offer more schedule flexibility, variety in daily responsibilities, and stronger peer support.

The data also showed that EHR systems were a major driver of burnout. Optometrists using EHRs—especially outside of clinic hours—were significantly more likely to report symptoms. Surprisingly, scribes and AI transcription tools didn’t meaningfully reduce burnout, indicating that more systemic solutions may be needed. Brief and efficient charting habits were associated with lower stress levels.

Interestingly, having children and being married to someone in healthcare were associated with lower burnout levels. These relationships often created a mental buffer, allowing professionals to disconnect from work stress once at home. Commutes over 60 minutes—typically seen as negative—were also linked to less burnout, possibly due to their role as decompression time.

Gender disparities were especially concerning. Female optometrists were nearly twice as likely to experience burnout as their male counterparts (60.9% vs. 40.6%). This gap persisted even after accounting for work hours, patient load, and family responsibilities. Additional findings showed women experienced more EHR stress, less alignment with workplace leadership, and more chaotic work environments.

The findings of this study offer not just sobering realities but also tangible solutions. Reducing clinical workload, protecting time outside of work, cultivating variety in practice, and creating support systems—especially for female practitioners—can improve both personal and professional outcomes. Dr. Abbott hopes his work will encourage not just self-awareness but systemic changes in workplace culture, leadership alignment, and practice design.

If you’re an eye care professional experiencing signs of burnout, take this research as a catalyst to pause and assess. Share these findings with colleagues. Advocate for more supportive clinical environments. And if you’re in a leadership position, be the change-maker—your team and your patients depend on it.

Join Dr. Darryl Glover as he sits down with Dr. Melissa Barnett—an acclaimed optometrist, specialty contact lens pioneer, and founder of Alpine Blue Coaching—to uncover the secrets of mindful leadership in eye care. In this engaging conversation, they explore how intentional presence and self-awareness empower teams, why proactive wellness rituals can replace burnout, and how clear, compassionate communication transforms patient outcomes and practice culture. Whether you’re leading a bustling clinic or striving for a healthier work–life balance, Dr. Barnett’s insights will equip you with practical tools to elevate your leadership, inspire your staff, and reconnect with the joy of caring for others.

By embracing mindful leadership, optometrists can transform stressful environments into resilient, engaged teams. The result is a practice culture that attracts talent, delivers superior patient experiences, and sustains long-term growth.

At its core, mindful leadership begins with self-awareness. In eye care, clinicians must juggle exam lanes, optical dispensaries, patient education, and business metrics—often all at once. To cultivate presence:

Increasing self-awareness improves decision-making and models authenticity for staff, who in turn feel safer sharing ideas and concerns.

In eye care, effective communication shapes patient trust, adherence to treatment, and team alignment. However, 75% of professionals report anxiety around public speaking and presentations, indicating a need to strengthen interpersonal skills. Mindful leadership in communication involves:

By investing in communication mastery, practitioners elevate patient experience, strengthen referrals, and position themselves as thought leaders in the broader healthcare community.

Alpine Blue Coaching Example
An eye care professional struggled with low confidence in both team leadership and public engagement. Despite strong clinical skills, she hesitated in staff meetings, avoided mentoring junior colleagues, and turned down opportunities to present at local optometric gatherings.

Coaching Intervention
Through a six-week program with Alpine Blue Coaching, she engaged in:

Outcome: Within two months, the practitioner:

This case exemplifies how a mindful, customized coaching approach can accelerate professional growth, enhance practice culture, and expand career opportunities.

Founded by Dr. Melissa Barnett—an optometrist and career coach with over two decades in specialty contact lenses and wellness advocacy—Alpine Blue Coaching offers tailored services for eye care professionals:

Eye care professionals interested in elevating their leadership, enhancing wellness, and mastering communication can learn more at AlpineBlueCoaching.com.