They’re all part of ABB.
ALAMEDA, CA – ABB Optical Group plans to combine three eyecare organizations it owns into one practice development organization.
Diversified Buying Group and the ECP Network, both part of Diversified Ophthalmics, with Primary Eyecare Network, also known as PEN. ABB acquired Diversified Ophthalmics in October 2016.
The merged organization will operate under the PEN brand.
A division of ABB since 2007, PEN is focused on supporting independent optometrists “by providing favorable purchasing arrangements, business management and marketing support, educational programs for practitioners and staff, medical billing services and other support services,” according to a press release.
ECP Network is a practice development organization that offers independent eyecare providers practice-management tools and guidance. Diversified Buying Group “offers customers discounts and special pricing on tens of thousands of products from more than 100 vendors with the convenience of one monthly statement,” according to the release.
Members of Diversified Buying Group and the ECP Network will have immediate access to PEN’s new online educational portal, which provides eye care practitioners and paraoptometric staff with on-demand webinars and continuing education classes. Billing statements will transition to ABB Optical Group/PEN over the next several months.
“Combining these three powerhouses into one organization gives ABB the scale and capabilities to help independent optometrists compete more effectively and profitably in today’s rapidly changing eye care marketplace,” said ABB Vice President of Eyewear Nan Meehan, who oversees Primary Eyecare Network.