CENTER LANE
Exam lane technology can revolutionize practice productivity.
This article originally appeared in the February 2015 edition of INVISION.
An examination lane system is a bit like a sun with its own solar system — doctors, staff and patients all revolving around it. And like our own sun, you may take it for granted and think it will always be there for you: just the right system working just as it should. But it may be time to take a good hard look at your current setup. Is it as efficient as it could be? Is it the right fit for your patient base (or the patient base you’d like to attract)? Are there newer technologies that might be better for you and your patients?
Here, we present advice from some leading lane system vendors, as well as from an ECP who recently purchased a new system with positive results. Use their guidance to make some good decisions to keep your practice revolving smoothly. — CORRIE PELC
POINTS TO CONSIDER
➤ ECPs need to focus on products that will help make their office more efficient. An increase in efficiency translates to more patients and increased revenue. Our focus is to help practices streamline all processes to ensure the patient receives the best possible care experience, and offering practitioners advanced technology at an affordable price. Do your homework and think of both your short-term needs and your long-term goals when choosing equipment. — Joel Kozlowski, Visionix/Briot
➤ When selecting an exam lane, it’s important to consider functionality, longevity and style. There are many options in the market to choose from, but all will have different features. Consider which features are the most important to your practice. — Matt Wess, Veatch Ophthalmic Instruments
➤ Invest in products from companies that allow upgrade paths as your practice needs change, automation systems that provide the efficiency you will require, integration for all major EMR management systems, and comprehensive service to protect your investment. — Michael J. Crocetta, Marco
➤ Your exam lane is the heart and soul of your business. Invest in quality equipment that will last. These are the tools of your trade, and there is nothing more important than having the right tool for the job. — Kyna Veatch, Veatch Ophthalmic Instruments
➤ Lombart Instrument is the largest distributor of diagnostic equipment in the U.S. Our size and expertise allow us to serve an individual practitioner’s needs as well as major teaching institutions and government facilities. — Gordon Siteman, Lombart Instrument
WHAT ECPs SAY
Dr. Nathan Bonilla-Warford
Bright Eyes Family Vision Care, Tampa, FL
➤ “The exam gives the ODs power to delegate and make decisions. ODs sell lenses and frames, but those recommendations come as part of an efficient exam. ”
➤ “A year-and-a-half ago, I purchased a wavefront analyzer/topographer combination unit and digital phoropter I had wanted for a long time. Clinically, I wanted more accurate information. I wanted to provide a more efficient, impressive patient experience, and a more ergonomic work environment for myself and my staff.”
➤ “The combination of wavefront analyzer with programmable, digital phoropter, all in a small footprint, is the biggest innovation. The whole is greater than the sum of the parts. As a unit, this can radically improve patient flow and quality of care.”