Recently, I had the privilege of speaking to optometry students from around the country. I was grateful to meet with them, as well as share some of what I have learned over my past 30 years in the profession. As I stood before these wide-eyed students, I told story after story about how the changes in optometry over the years have been amazing to me.

A Different Answer

One question I was asked was how I have adopted new technologies over the years—equipment, contact lenses, products, and services. Twenty years ago, I answered, my decisions to adopt new technologies were driven primarily by reimbursement or profitability. (After all, I was trying to sustain a practice.) In observing this initial approach, I explained, I learned that patient perception and long-term value should be the major criteria in decision-making regarding new technologies and that as the leader of the practice, it was my job to create this change.

As examples, when I prescribe new treatments for dry eye disease or introduce new-technology contact lenses, I do so because I know they are the best option for my patients, regardless of reimbursement or profitability.

The result of this approach has been greater profitability for the practice. When I do what is right for the patient, the practice naturally grows. The same goes for people.

Continuing to Lead

Many people define a leader as the person with the position, power, title, or money. Through my journey as an optometrist and practice owner, However, I have learned that a true leader is someone who serves others (see my changed approach), continually learns and grows, and finds ways to improve the lives of those around them. This includes patients, staff, family, and friends. I was sure to share this lesson with the students I spoke with as well.

An Advisable Approach

As 2025 ends, I’d like to suggest we consider that the future of optometry is bright if we continue to learn from our experiences, lead, and share the lessons we’ve learned with future ODs. Let's keep making each other better. We are all better when we are all better! OM

Email: dr@apriljasper.com
X: @DrAprilJasper
Facebook: @OptometricManagement

April Jasper, OD, FAAO, practices in West Palm Beach, Florida. She is an American Academy of Optometry fellow, chief optometric editor of Optometric Management, and author of "Creating Your Business of Distinction," which can be purchased here: amzn.to/3LM8JmR.