Iowa Visionaries

Sergeant Bluff Eyecare, Sergeant Bluff, IA

OWNER: Benjamin Uhl, OD; URL: sergeantbluffeyecare.com; FACEBOOK: facebook.com/SergeantBluffEyeCare; FOUNDED: 2007; Opened featured location: 2015; AREA: 5,061 sq. ft.; TOP BRANDS: : Tom Ford, Calvin Klein, Coach, Michael Kors, Kate Spade, Fysh, KLiiK, Minamoto, Rag & Bone, Oakley, Bausch + Lomb, Alcon, Neurolens, Essilor, Shamir, Optos, Optovue, iCare, OfficeMate, Marco; EMPLOYEES: 30 full-time

Benjamin Uhl, OD

SERGEANT BLUFF EYECARE’S journey began modestly when owner Dr. Benjamin Uhl, assisted by ever-dedicated practice manager Rachel Vandekop, opened a cozy two-lane office in 2007. The environment they envisioned — one in which each patient is treated as a unique individual, with a work culture that embraces camaraderie and dedication — has been superbly realized, with the practice and its four sister locations having become a cornerstone of eye health in the Siouxland area.

To accommodate its burgeoning patient base, the original location (profiled here) underwent a major renovation in 2015, allowing Uhl and his team to integrate cutting-edge technology and offer an extensive optical selection boasting over 1,500 frames and sunglasses. The office’s evolution continued in 2017 with the addition of Dr. Tyler Lefeber to the team. Amazingly, while overseeing this period of growth, Uhl has maintained a busy and personally rewarding military career, first in the Army Reserve and currently in the Air National Guard (see Fine Story below).

The space seamlessly blends an earthy modern aesthetic, combining vibrant pops of green and blue with natural wood elements and a striking statement wall behind the front desk. Carefully selected carpeting complements the color scheme throughout, enhancing the overall ambiance.

The team’s commitment to getting the details right and making patients feel welcomed and valued is reflected in their proactive approach to feedback. “We actively seek input from our patients, encouraging them to share their experiences and insights. This includes not only positive feedback but also constructive criticism.”

Two of the things that set SBEC apart — embracing technological innovation and commitment to patient engagement — are reflected in their online presence, with Vandekop keeping things fresh on Facebook and the practice’s website allowing patients to explore the frame inventory and try it on virtually through their Optify-powered online Eyeglass Store. “Optify has been a game changer for us,” says Uhl. “Our inventory is integrated into our practice management system, and Optify pulls that data to offer real-time messaging to patients before their appointments. Patients can select frames for a virtual try-on, and we have their choices ready for them by the time of their exam.”

The space seamlessly blends an earthy modern aesthetic, combining vibrant pops of green and blue with natural wood elements.

SBEC’s opticians are always on the lookout for frames that patients may want, he says, “ensuring we either have something for everyone or know exactly where to find it.” Tom Ford, FYSH, Charmant, David Beckham, Oakley and Maui Jim are currently among their top lines.

In the exam lane, Uhl and his team are committed to harnessing technological advances to provide personalized care, making a priority of finding solutions to meet patients’ needs. An example is the practice’s plan to add YAG procedures to their offerings to avoid a referral and another appointment for patients.

Essilor leads the way in lenses at SBEC. They rely heavily on Bausch + Lomb and Alcon for contacts but also fit a wide range of specialty lenses such as SynergEyes. Uhl also shouts out Olleyes for virtual field testing, Neurolens, Optos Monaco, Optovue Solix — they were among the first in the nation to get the machine — and iCare. The practice also makes good use of Optify, Solutionreach, OfficeMate and Eyefinity EHR.

Among staff, Uhl promotes an ethos of trust and autonomy. Regular team gatherings provide opportunities for collaborative learning and skill enhancement throughout the year. “We prioritize continuing education and actively encourage certification within our respective fields, ensuring that our team members are equipped with the latest knowledge and expertise,” he says.

Another key component of the SBEC culture is its strong commitment to the local community. Uhl is involved with various boards, including the local chamber and the Iowa Optometric Association. The team actively participate in volunteer efforts and sponsor events. “Whether it’s providing free eye exams for those in need, supporting local charities, or sponsoring youth sports teams, we’re deeply invested in making a positive difference in the lives of those around us.”

SBEC’s innovative approach hasn’t gone unnoticed. According to Uhl, other practitioners have taken notice of their success, prompting him to establish Insight Advantage Consultants, which offers consulting services across every aspect of the optometric field. “We believe we’ve developed an excellent model for business practices and are eager to share our knowledge,” he says.

It’s not hard to see why Uhl’s peers turn to him for advice. “We’re constantly challenging ourselves to push the boundaries of what’s possible, asking, ‘Where can we go from here?’ This mindset of continuous improvement and expansion permeates every aspect of our operations. We’re excited to see where our journey takes us next.”

Five Cool Things About Sergeant Bluff Eyecare

1. CONVERSATION PIECES. A display of Dr. Uhl’s impressive baseball memorabilia in his office adds a personal touch and showcases his passion for the sport.

2. CUTTING EDGE. SBEC is committed to staying ahead of trends and continuously updating its technology, ensuring the practice is always at the forefront of innovation.

3. TRANQUIL TOUCH. A stunning grass wall divides the waiting area from the optical. Adorned with dried wild grass, this feature creates a unique and calming atmosphere for patients.

4. GREEN THUMB. Dr. Uhl is a master gardener, and the office is filled with plants, contributing to a fresh and lively environment.

5. WARM VIBE. The practice promotes a culture in which patients feel like family, enhancing the overall experience and care.

PHOTO GALLERY (24 IMAGES)