As the CEO of a practice with five locations and nine doctors, attending Vision Expo has become a pivotal part of my year. With the event just over a week away, I’m gearing up for what is always a highlight in my professional calendar. Here’s how I prepare for it, focusing on innovation, efficiency, and networking.
Strategic Planning
1. Year-Round Preparation:
I keep a dedicated note section in my Notion app throughout the year where I jot down anything that catches my interest—be it new instruments, software updates, changes in purchasing groups or vendor rebates. These notes form the basis of what I explore at the expo to understand shifts in the industry that could affect our practice’s bottom line.
2. Efficiency and Innovation:
One of my main focuses is on operational efficiency. For instance, the patient check-in process is an area ripe for innovation. While many EMR systems claim to streamline this process, practical functionality often falls short. I am particularly interested in solutions like mobile check-ins enhanced with geofencing, allowing patients to check-in upon physically arriving at our facilities. Vision Expo is my opportunity to discover if any forward-thinking companies in optometry—or beyond—are making headway in this area.
Networking and Relationship Building
3. Selective Networking:
Vision Expo is teeming with professionals, and while it’s tempting to meet everyone, I value quality over quantity. I focus on deepening relationships with individuals who are not only influential but also genuinely enriching to connect with. These interactions are not merely transactional; they are about building lasting partnerships and exchanging valuable insights.
Challenging the Status Quo
4. Questioning Current Practices:
I use Vision Expo as a benchmark to assess our current practices and prepare for strategic planning in the fall. It’s a time to challenge the status quo and consider new ideas that may disrupt our usual ways of working but could lead to greater efficiency and profitability.
Looking Ahead
Each Vision Expo, whether in the East or the West, presents unique opportunities to interact with both established industry leaders and innovative newcomers. The vast exhibit hall provides a platform to engage directly with vendors, from major players to emerging startups that are pushing the boundaries of what’s possible in optometry.
Conclusion: Vision Expo isn’t just an event; it’s a strategic resource. It’s a chance to step back from day-to-day operations and look at the bigger picture, ensuring we remain at the forefront of the optometry field. Whether it’s adopting new technology, tweaking our business strategies, or simply gathering fresh ideas, the expo is a crucial part of how I guide our practice into the future. Plus, the trip to Vegas is always a nice perk—easy travel, good food, and great company, all while keeping an eye on our financial margins.