Have you set yourself up for success in the next contact lens chapter?

It’s fun to hear about new technology. Do you remember your first Blackberry? I remember being so excited to check my phone for new emails in-between patients. Then, the iPhone and its apps changed the technology landscape. What about the buzz around a self-driving car? Sounds crazy — but who knows — that chapter has yet to be written.

None of us really knows how the next chapter of contact lens technology is going to be written, but I feel like we are entering a new era. Allow me to explain.

DAILY DISPOSABLE LENSES

Daily disposable lenses are taking off in many of our practices, but their applications are just beginning. Whether it is in the area of improved comfort or enhanced vision in a world with a variety of demanding visual conditions, technology is being created to improve the contact lens experience.

TREATING DISEASE

For just about every medical and vision condition, contact lenses will potentially make a difference. Currently, the fitting of contact lenses for ocular surface disease (92071) and the fitting of contact lenses for the management of keratoconus fall under this category (92072). I am speculating that other medical conditions will have their own codes as well.

SPECIALTY LENSES

Specialty contact lenses are custom made to treat the specific corneal ocular health concerns, such as keratoconus. Technological advances in this area, such as sclerals and hybrids, can vault the cornea and provide a smooth optical surface for the patient. Pachymetry readings are useful in monitoring these treatment options. Perfecting these fittings will provide improved vision and comfort.

TRADITIONAL LENSES

Traditional sphere, multifocal and toric contact lenses have many opportunities for growth when discussed and applied within your practice. This growth will happen by doing two things:

1. Making the contact lens offer to all patients (new and existing).
2. Offering your current contact lens patients new technology.

ARE YOU READY FOR IT?

Are you ready for contact lenses that have enhanced wetting capabilities, improve treatments for medical conditions and have enhanced visual designs? Preparing yourself for this next chapter is as simple as following the steps we talk about monthly in this column to set a strong foundation.

Make the offer to your patients for the best technology to provide for their ocular health and lifestyles. This includes ensuring that you know about options and research as they come out of the pipeline by reading articles, attaining CE and maintaining relationships with industry.

I’ve certainly enjoyed the most recent contact lens chapter; are you ready for the next one? OM

DR. MILLER is a partner at Eye- care Professionals of Powell, Ohio. He is past president of the Ohio Optometric Association and assistant professor of clinical practice at The Ohio State University College of Optometry. Dr. Miller has received honoraria for consulting, lecturing, research or acting in an advisory capacity from: Alcon, Allergan, Bausch + Lomb, J&J Vision Care, Revolution EHR and Shire.