Equipment can be the largest line items in a budget. OCT, retinal cameras, and IPL are three of the most common that can either accelerate growth or quietly strain cash flow.
Optical coherence tomography is a powerful tool, but many practices overspend on premium features they rarely use. For most glaucoma and macular needs, a dependable OCT with strong image quality and a normative database can be as clinically effective as a costlier one. The difference in outcomes often comes from training and OD knowledge, not price.
A quality non-mydriatic retinal camera can accomplish the core goals of documentation, patient education, and supporting medical decision making without a six-figure price tag. Company support is paramount.
With IPL devices, success is driven by patient selection, treatment protocols, and team confidence. A cost-effective, clinically impactful IPL system can deliver results comparable to “premium” models. Doctors should weigh the importance of FDA clearance and the role it may or may not play in patient care. — Christopher Lopez, OD
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