Fortunately, e-commerce platforms such as Bausch + Lomb’s Opal are leveling the playing field by enabling independent optometrists to offer the same level of service, convenience, and product accessibility as their corporate counterparts.

Convenience and accessibility

One of the biggest advantages corporate giants have is their ability to provide seamless online ordering and fulfillment, making it easy for patients to purchase contact lenses and eyewear directly from their websites. Traditionally, independent optometrists have struggled to match this level of convenience. Platforms like Opal provide a digital storefront that integrates with a practice, allowing patients to reorder their contact lenses online while maintaining their relationship with their trusted eye care provider. This means independent practitioners remain the go-to source for vision care rather than losing patients to large retail chains or third-party online retailers.

Patient relationships

When patients purchase eyewear or contact lenses from corporate retailers, the connection with their primary eye care provider weakens. E-commerce solutions like Opal allow private optometrists to maintain control over their product offerings, ensuring that patients return to their practice for follow-up care, prescription updates, and future purchases.

By offering this kind of branded, user-friendly e-commerce experience, optometrists can reinforce their role as the primary provider of eye health services rather than just being a prescription source.

Competitive pricing without overhead costs

A significant challenge independent optometrists face is competing with the bulk pricing and aggressive discounts offered by major corporations. By utilizing an e-commerce platform like Opal, private practices can access competitive pricing on contact lenses and other optical products while reducing the overhead costs associated with in-office inventory management. Many of these platforms also offer direct-to-patient shipping, eliminating the need for optometrists to stock large quantities of products and allowing them to focus on patient care rather than logistics.

Strengthening practice profitability

By integrating e-commerce into their practice, optometrists can generate revenue beyond in-office visits and retail sales. Automated reordering, subscription models, and seamless payment processing encourage repeat business, creating a steady revenue stream that helps independent practices remain financially viable in an increasingly competitive market.

E-commerce platforms like Bausch + Lomb’s Opal empower independent optometrists to compete effectively against corporate giants. By offering convenience, patient retention, competitive pricing, and additional revenue streams, these platforms help level the playing field and ensure that private practice optometrists can continue providing personalized, high-quality eye care without being overshadowed by large-scale corporate entities.

Dr. Neal Troyer, OD, has more than 15 years’ experience in practice management and is a co-founder of Eyecare Republic.

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Addressing Corporate Dominance in Optometry 

So, why did we feel the need to create a doctor alliance group? My co-founder, Dr. Justin Weigel, and I have been part of many such groups and shared the common disappointment many of you might feel—that the corporate elites and conglomerates in optometry often prioritize their interests over those of individual practitioners, like you and me, in the exam rooms. 

It became clear that if there wasn’t an alliance out there that truly represented our interests, we needed to build it ourselves. Eyecare Republic is for every optometrist who is in the trenches—those who long for the “good old days” when optometrists could sit down, peer-to-peer, and share best practices directly without corporate overtones. 

Joining Forces for a Better Future in Optometry 

Our goal is to collaborate using vendors and resources that align with our interests, supporting not just private or independent optometrists but any practitioner who feels that our profession may not be headed in the right direction. We believe in uniting our voices for a stronger, collective impact. 

Reflecting on the past, nearly 20 years ago, if you asked any optometrist if they wanted their child to follow in their footsteps, the answer would invariably be yes. Unfortunately, that sentiment has dwindled, which we believe is due to the overbearing influence of the larger players in our field who are too involved in controlling the profession. 

At Eyecare Republic, we are saying “no more.” We are an organization for doctors, by doctors, dedicated to ensuring our profession remains in the hands of those who practice it day in and day out. I encourage all of you to visit our website at Eyecare Republic to learn more about what we stand for. 

Remember, joining is currently free, and it will always include a no-cost option. We are primarily an alliance for private and independent eye care practitioners, but anyone who desires a better future for optometry is welcome to join. Our strength is in our numbers, and together, our voices will be heard and make a difference. 

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