Each of the features in this month’s issue of Optometric Management acknowledges some aspect of teamwork.

Taking a closer look:

• In the article “Role of Optometric Groups Evolves” (p.22), contributing editor Lindsey Getz reports on how alliances/buying groups are helping their members during the pandemic with additional resources in such areas as finance, marketing and patient care.
• Dr. Charles B. Brownlow discusses how to ensure billing and coding are accurately completed in “Consider Outsourced Billing Services” (p.25). In instances where a third party would be a good fit, Dr. Brownlow lists six steps to help identify the right service.
• Creating an effective e-commerce presence requires a team that can include the project manager, an IT manager and others in the practice, along with the e-commerce vendor, professional groups and industry partners, notes Dr. Carol Logan in “E-Commerce Essentials in Eye Care” (p.28). In the article, Dr. Logan also explains the steps her practice has taken to develop an e-commerce site. She includes an 11-point to-do list.
• In exploring ways to support the mental, emotional and physical health of their employees, Dr. Jessilin Quint and her business partners have developed an office wellness initiative. In “Strategize for Improved Employee Well-Being” (p.36), Dr. Quint discusses this fun way to connect with the team, which has yielded both tangible and intangible benefits.
• Dr. Cecelia Koetting reminds us of the importance of collaboraing with other physicians in “Lessons From the Practice” (p.14).

CONTINUE THE COLLABORATION

In addition to the teams mentioned above, a number of collaborative opportunities exist with colleagues, vendors, professional associations and others who can share a wealth of resources and experience. One example: Study groups with other O.D.s have been called “one of the most powerful ways to build your practice” by Dr. Neil Gailmard (see OM’s “Tip of the Week” e-newsletter at bit.ly/OMTOTW221 ).

In summarizing the advantages of teams, author/business consultant Ken Blanchard notes a simple concept that applies, regardless of the situation: “No one of us is as smart as all of us.” OM