Pamela J. Miller, O.D., F.A.A.O., J.D., offers some pointers to help you begin fitting specialty lens with success:

• If you're unfamiliar with the wide variety of specialty lenses available,
• you can take a refresher course at a local optometry school, attend classes at a professional educational meeting or read the professional literature.
• If you feel a bit shaky, start with an easier case, and work your way up. For example, use a stock toric or try a cosmetic lens to disguise a corneal opacity.
• Consult with lens manufacturers and use diagnostic lenses. As you become proficient, you'll discover that your initial fitting lenses are closer to your actual endpoint. Never underestimate the importance of diagnostic lenses as a critical fitting aid.
• Be as honest with the patient as you can. If the prescription is a difficult fit, if the patient needs an over-correction for driving, the computer, reading or sports safety, discuss it. If the patient wore lenses previously and wants to try again, be honest about the opportunities for success.