The annual “Innovation” issue of Optometric Management routinely recognizes the creativity that is characteristic of optometry. This issue is no exception.

It is not unusual for new ideas to be met with some criticism, but too much criticism can discourage innovation. A solution to keep the creativity flowing, often attributed to Walt Disney, is “plussing,” where criticisms must include a “plus” in the form of either a new idea or a suggestion to strengthen the original idea.

According to the Accreditation Council for Continuing Medical Education website, plussing is about “building on the sound things that are already within the concept and making it even better by propelling continuous improvement.” (See bit.ly/ACCMEplussing ). Additionally, this solution can help transform critics into creators and collaborators.

Inside the issue

In celebrating innovation in optometry, our feature section opens with “From idea to patent," by Dr. Paul C. Onderick. Dr. Onderick, an optometrist and patent attorney, presents six steps to claim an original idea for an invention as your own.

In “Schedule for success,” Dr. Tonya M. Reynoldson explains how to create an efficient schedule that creates happy patients and staff, increased productivity, and financial stability, “all of which can sustain and grow a practice.”

Innovation can present a challenge — that is, how do practices create the time to educate patients on the latest products and treatments? In “How to market new offerings," several leading optometrists (Drs. Jessilin Quint, Selina McGee, Carly Rose, and Janelle L. Davison) suggest practical steps, from capitalizing on chair time to social media, to educating patients on the latest ophthalmic innovations.

Speaking of new offerings, will spectacles for myopia be in your future? Dr. Andrew D. Pucker reviews the literature in “Myopia control spectacles: Review the latest research." Specifically, he discusses three lens designs now in the pipeline.

In “Innovations that increase access to eye care." Dr. Frances Bynum discusses how technology, including new diagnostic devices and treatments, can extend care to more patients.

As a final note, we invite you to continue the conversation: Email your innovative practice ideas to james.thomas@broadcastmed.com. OM