This issue of Optometric Management recognizes that innovative solutions come in all sizes, from large capital investments in technology, to incremental improvements in office procedures (and all levels in between). Simply put, we’re celebrating those changes in the optometry practice that create value.

ARTIFICIAL INTELLIGENCE AND INTELLIGENT SOLUTIONS

Much has been written about innovative approaches for the use of artificial intelligence (AI) in medicine. A survey published in Investigative Ophthalmology & Visual Science (June 2021, see bit.ly/iov sAI ), by Shorter et al, reveals ODs are optimistic about AI: 86.8% of respondents believe AI should play a future in disease screening, and 69.0% agree it should play a role in monitoring disease progression. To help understand AI’s impact on screening and diagnostics in optometry, Dr. Kevin Cornwell reviews many of the latest advancements in “Investigate Artificial Intelligence in Eye Care." Dr. Brianna Rhue reminds us that technology is advancing on the medical side and the business side of practice. Specifically, she introduces 10 administrative tools in “Don’t Overlook Administrative Technology."

The article “Enterprising Optometrists"offers examples of practice innovation from three ODs — Drs. Jason Compton (social media), Dori Carlson (dark adaptation), and Shefali Miglani (marketing myopia management). And in “Educate Patients on All Offerings Efficiently," Dr. Whitney A. Jensen discusses innovative approaches to patient education and marketing.

CREATE A CULTURE OF INNOVATION

One of the biggest hurdles to change is culture: Businesses are organized to deliver predictable results, a model which is “inconsistent with discovering tomorrow’s model,” explains the Nov.-Dec. 2019 Harvard Business Review article, “Breaking Down the Barriers to Innovation” (see bit.ly/hbrInnovation ). To help remove this barrier, Dr. Jessilin Quint presents four action steps to help foster a practice culture that supports and adapts to innovation in “Optical." Additionally, in “iBusiness” (p.47), Dr. Timothy Earley describes how to develop an office culture that provides inspiration and keeps employees engaged. OM