How to take advantage of the benefits of advanced technology

While several recent surveys report that many U.S. small businesses do not use technology to its fullest capacity, there is good news: Those organizations that do take advantage of technology report productivity improvements and gains in efficiency, two valuable assets. In this month’s Optometric Management, we explore steps to better take advantage of advances that boost productivity, efficiency and, ultimately, lead to a better patient experience.

STEPS TO BETTER UTILIZATION

In “Utilize Technology to Monitor Disease” (p.16), Drs. Michael Cymbor and Jenae Stiles present practical tips for using devices, such as OCT, OCTA and ERG, to monitor disease. In this constantly evolving world of optometry, it is imperative to stay current with advancements that monitor disease progression, note the authors.

Sometimes, technology can become a pain in the neck (and back), literally, as the time spent at a desk and certain devices can “take a significant toll on our bodies over time,” writes Dr. Nadia Virani in “Ergonomics and the Optometric Practice” (p.20). Dr. Virani presents six small adjustments to the daily routine, from posture to equipment positioning, that can help alleviate pain and improve health.

When utilizing technology or just running a busy practice becomes overwhelming, Dr. Jennifer L. Stewart offers a solution: delegate to members of the staff. In her article, “The Benefits of Staff Delegation” (p.24), Dr. Stewart also suggests tasks to delegate, including those associated with the front desk, contact lenses and testing.

The ability to store, integrate and analyze information from a number of devices can “set the stage for better patient outcomes,” writes Dr. Thomas Wong in “Manage Images and Data in Practice” (p.26). Dr. Wong discusses image and data management systems, in terms of functionality, privacy and security, network infrastructure and more.

Understanding why and how to evaluate technology is a key message of this month’s issue, which you’ll find in the columns “Dry Eye” (p.39), by Dr. Whitney Hauser, and “Contact Lenses” (p.36), by Dr. Jason Miller, to name a few. We also welcome your input: Share your technology successes with us by emailing me at james.thomas@pentavisionmedia.com. OM