Author: blavigne

The Power of Emotional Intelligence and Empathy

Human Resources, Managing Others

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In our whirlwind, interconnected world, the art of navigating the intricate tapestry of human emotions is more critical than ever. Emotional intelligence (EI) and empathy stand out as beacons, guiding us to forge positive relationships, enhance leadership, and create a harmonious work environment.

Scenario:

Picture this: you’re caught in a recurring conversation with a coworker. They’re trapped in a whirlpool of frustration and despair over a repeating issue, blind to the fact that they are the common thread in these situations. There you are, offering a listening ear to a tale that’s turning from familiar to tiresome.

You value this coworker and the bond you share, but this repetitive cycle is starting to fray the edges of your patience. The solution seems to shimmer so clearly before you – a minor tweak in their behavior could sweep away mountains of stress. Yet, despite your repeated advice, they seem ensnared in their patterns, unready or unwilling to grasp the lifeline you offer.

Realizing that you can’t repaint their behavioral patterns, how do you preserve the warmth of this relationship? Must it be a never-ending cycle until professional paths diverge?

It doesn’t have to be. This is your moment to flex your empathy muscles.

Understanding Empathy:

Empathy, a cornerstone of emotional intelligence, is the art of walking in another’s shoes, feeling the contours of their experiences. It’s not just about offering sympathy; it’s about genuinely connecting with and understanding others’ emotions. Empathy is a dance of two steps: cognitive empathy, understanding someone’s perspective, and emotional empathy, feeling what they feel.

Empathetic individuals are like emotional detectives, adept at deciphering and resonating with the feelings of others, laying the groundwork for deep, meaningful connections. This trait is invaluable in all relationships, paving the way for mutual understanding, trust, and collaboration.

The Link Between Emotional Intelligence and Empathy:

Though distinct, emotional intelligence and empathy are intertwined like strands of a DNA helix. Emotional intelligence is the bedrock of understanding and managing one’s emotions, with empathy extending this understanding to others. A person rich in emotional intelligence naturally exudes empathy, armed with the self-awareness and social skills to forge profound connections.

In the workplace, leaders who blend emotional intelligence with empathy excel in sculpting robust, unified teams. They are maestros who understand the diverse emotional landscapes of their team, cultivating a positive, inclusive atmosphere. This harmony not only boosts morale but also sparks productivity and creativity.

dart board with bulls eye

Benefits of Emotional Intelligence and Empathy:

  1. Improved Communication: Those with a rich tapestry of emotional intelligence are maestros in communication. They not only articulate their own thoughts and emotions with clarity but are also attuned to the unspoken languages of others. This dual awareness leads to conversations that are not just heard, but deeply understood.
  2. Conflict Resolution: Understanding and managing emotions are pivotal in diffusing conflicts. Emotionally intelligent individuals navigate disagreements with grace, seeking solutions that are not just compromises, but triumphs for all involved.
  3. Enhanced Leadership: Leaders adorned with emotional intelligence and empathy are like lighthouses, guiding their teams with authenticity and trust. Their empathetic approach fosters a culture of positivity and inclusion, resonating throughout the organization.
  4. Building Strong Relationships: In both personal and professional realms, emotional intelligence and empathy are the golden threads that weave strong, enduring relationships. This emotional connection cultivates trust, loyalty, and mutual support, fortifying bonds that withstand the test of time.

To conclude, emotional intelligence and empathy are not just skills, but essential life tools for navigating the complex web of human relationships. As our world grows ever more interconnected, our ability to understand and connect with others emotionally is not just beneficial, but imperative for personal and professional growth. By nurturing emotional intelligence, we not only sharpen our self-awareness and self-regulation but also kindle empathetic connections that enrich our lives and the lives around us. Embracing the transformative power of emotional intelligence and empathy, we pave the way for a more compassionate, harmonious society.

Jade Bodzasy

Jade Bodzasy

Jade Bodzasy, Founder of Emotional Intelligence Consulting Inc., is a dedicated Coach and Consultant for Optometric Practices. Her extensive background includes over 20,000 hours of expertise focused on customer relations, work structure refinement, training method development, and fostering improved work culture within Optometric practices.

Certified in Rational Emotive Behavior Techniques (REBT), Jade possesses a unique skillset that empowers individuals to gain profound insights into the origins of their behaviors, as well as those of others. Leveraging her certification, she equips optometry practices with invaluable resources and expert guidance to establish and sustain a positive, healthful, and productive work environment.

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Seeing Beyond the Crisis: A Strategic Vision for Eye Care Recruitment

Human Resources, Talent Acquisition

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Strategic vision

The eye care industry, a nexus of health, style, and innovation, is at a critical juncture. Despite being a field ripe with opportunities, we are faced with a recruitment crisis. This is our clarion call to action, our moment to harness the latent potential within and address the pressing challenge of attracting and retaining a future-focused workforce.

Recruitment in Crisis: An Opportunity Cloaked in Urgency

It’s an unsettling paradox that such an appealing industry is grappling with talent acquisition. The crux of the issue lies in our short-term tactics and the perennial race against the clock, fulfilling the needs of today while the foresight for tomorrow remains blurred.

Why is this sector a beacon for aspirants? It offers a unique combination of compassionate healthcare services and the sleek sophistication of fashion, all underpinned by technological advancement. Yet, our outreach remains narrow, appealing only to those actively seeking employment rather than inspiring a broader, more diverse audience to join our ranks.

Our industry has been content with ‘Best Practices’, comfortably treading water in familiar territory. We’ve focused on those with resumes at the ready, failing to cast our net wider to those not yet contemplating the rich and varied careers in eye care.

How do we break free from the current paradigm that holds us back? By shifting our perspective from short-term, reactionary methods to controlled, long-term planning. Recruitment must be reimagined—not as a series of transactions but as a strategic endeavor.

Addressing the challenge of filling specialized roles like optometrists and opticians requires a multifaceted approach, particularly considering that these professions demand extensive education and training. While the power to expand educational opportunities often lies with educational governance structures, there’s a time-proven strategy within our reach: mentorship. This approach, far from being novel, has long been a cornerstone in the optical industry. Through mentorship, seasoned professionals can guide, inspire, and motivate those embarking on or considering these demanding career paths. It’s an invaluable tool for career development, ensuring a continuous influx of well-prepared professionals ready to uphold and advance the standards of eye care. By strengthening mentorship initiatives, we not only support individual career growth but also contribute significantly to addressing our industry’s long-term staffing needs. 

Imagine the transformation if, instead of competing for a finite pool of candidates, we joined forces to build the workforce of tomorrow. By leveraging advanced processes such as human analytics and behavioral science, we can align personalities with roles that not only fit but flourish within our industry.  

Collaborative Innovation: A Path Forward

What if our collective effort could create a talent incubator, nurturing the next generation of associates and eye care professionals? Examples abound in other industries where collaboration has led to robust talent pipelines and shared success.

We’ve witnessed industries pivot and thrive by adopting such collaborative strategies. The food manufacturing sector, for example, has united to spectacular results, with applications and retention rates soaring. We don’t have the luxury to be passive observers; action is imperative.

It’s time for the torchbearers of industry: associations, buying groups, professional circles, and leading companies to ignite this change. We need visionaries who can transcend traditional boundaries and initiate a movement toward strategic recruitment.

The Future is Clear—Let’s Shape It Together

Who will answer the call to reshape our industry’s future? It begins with leadership willing to invest in tomorrow, today. Together, we can cultivate an environment that not only draws talent but also empowers, retains, and celebrates it.

The future of eye care must be envisioned with clarity and courage. We have a responsibility to act decisively, crafting a legacy of innovation in recruitment that will sustain and invigorate our industry for decades to come.

TIM BRENNAN

is Chief Visionary Officer with Fit First Technologies Inc, the creators of Eyeployment, TalentSorter and Jobtimize.

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Why Toilets Matter: The Unseen Impact on Practice Value

Accounting Basics, Buying-Selling A Practice, Finance|Wealth

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Dont flush practice value down the toilet!

While originally spun from the dental world by Tim Brown, President of ROI Corporation, this story resonates just as profoundly within the realm of optometry.

Reflecting on Tim’s eye-opening narrative. “Why Toilets Matter”, it’s clear that the nuances of practice environment extend far beyond mere aesthetics or functionality. They’re crucial to the very valuation of an optometric practice.

Here’s a curious tidbit that Tim shared, illustrating the point perfectly: A dental office in an older medical building introduced door codes for bathroom access, changing them occasionally.

Sign in dental practiceImagine, if you will, a patient viewing this sign!

This isn’t just about security or modernization; it’s a testament to how amenities, as mundane as bathroom access, can significantly impact a practice’s perceived value.

Amenities such as these aren’t just physical attributes; they’re reflections of how a practice values its staff, patients, and overall operational ethos. And guess what? This wisdom utterly applicable to the optometry world as well.

Tim draws from a decade of hands-on clinical experience before venturing into the appraisal and valuation arena, He has navigated diverse practice settings, each with its unique challenges and comforts. The conclusion? The quality and availability of facilities like bathrooms genuinely matter.

Imagine the daily grind in an optometry practice – it’s a marathon of mental and physical exertion. From the moment you step through those doors, it’s non-stop. The availability of a private space to catch a moment’s breath between patients isn’t a luxury; it’s a necessity.

Yet, disappointingly, this basic requirement remains elusive in many settings. Consider a working mother returning from parental leave, the absence of a private, comfortable space for necessities like breast milk pumping – relegated instead to a cramped public restroom! Disheartening.

Key Point: Minor Details Impact Practice Value

We’ve witnessed firsthand the discomfort of staff and patients sharing a too-close-for-comfort restroom adjacent to the waiting area. The thought of a healthcare professional emerging from such a space, only to engage closely with a patient, underscores a glaring oversight in hygiene and privacy standards.

The dialogue around these issues isn’t new. These seemingly minor details can profoundly affect the morale of your staff, the satisfaction of your patients, and ultimately, the financial valuation of your practice.

In echoing Tim’s sentiments, it’s clear: The gold standard for any healthcare practice, optometry included, must advocate for private bathroom and a dignified, clean space for staff. Let’s not overlook the basics, for in them lies the foundation of our practice’s value and integrity.

Link to Previous Jackie Joachim Articles,

Link to Tim’s original article.

Jackie Joachim, COO ROI Corp

JACKIE JOACHIM

Jackie has 30 years of experience in the industry as a former banker and now the Chief Operating Officer of ROI Corporation. Please contact her at Jackie.joachim@roicorp.com or 1-844-764-2020.

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NextGen OD Canada Reaffirms Commitment to the Future of Optometry with CAOS Sponsorship

NextGenOD

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NextGEN OD Canada

In a significant show of support for the next generation of optometry professionals, NextGen OD, alongside Eye Care Business Canada, is proud to announce its continued sponsorship of the Canadian Association of Optometry Students (CAOS) at the University of Waterloo for the second consecutive year.

This partnership is a testament to our dedication to fostering the growth and development of the optometry field by backing its future leaders—our students.

Elevating Student Voices Through APERTURE Magazine

One of the cornerstones of this sponsorship is our support for APERTURE Magazine, the official magazine of CAOS. But this year, we’re taking our support a step further by not only showcasing academic excellence but rewarding it as well.

The APERTURE writing contest offers a platform for students to express their creativity and insights, with enticing incentives. Winners of the contest will not only be celebrated with $500 in prizes but will also see their winning entries published in both Eye Care Business Canada and Optik Magazine. T

This opportunity opens the doors for over 10,000 Canadian eye care professionals to recognize and appreciate the fresh perspectives and innovative ideas of tomorrow’s industry leaders.

David Pietrobon, President of VuePoint IDS—which publishes Eye Care Business Canada, NextGen OD, and Optik Magazine—emphasized the significance of nurturing new talent. “Identifying the next generation of leading peer influencers offers an exceptional opportunity to acknowledge the talent within this cohort and introduce their fresh perspectives to the eyecare industry at large,” Pietrobon remarked.

We are calling on CAOS members to lend their voices to APERTURE Magazine. It’s a unique chance to contribute to the larger conversation in the eyecare community, with the assurance of a fair and transparent selection process led by CAOS leadership.

NextGEN OD Event: A Beacon for Future Opportunity

The highlight of our sponsorship is the annual NextGEN Opportunities & Options event, scheduled for March 28th at Federation Hall, University of Waterloo.

This event is designed to inspire and guide optometry students through the myriad of career paths available in the field. Featuring insights from both recent graduates and seasoned industry experts, the event promises to be a melting pot of inspiration, advice, and networking opportunities.

Key industry sponsors will be present to engage with students, alongside a sumptuous buffet and the chance to win exciting prizes. Moreover, with virtual attendance from Canadian optometry students across North America, the event promises to forge a wide-reaching network of future eyecare professionals.

Mark your calendars and register now for this landmark event. It’s an unparalleled opportunity to explore the diverse career options in optometry and connect with peers and professionals within the industry.

NextGen OD

Looking Forward

The future of optometry shines brightly, and with the continued support of NextGen OD and Eye Care Business Canada, it’s set to become even more luminous. We eagerly anticipate the innovative contributions to APERTURE Magazine and look forward to welcoming you to the NextGEN Opportunities & Options event. Together, let’s step into a future where the vision of tomorrow’s optometry leaders is recognized and celebrated.

Stay tuned to Eye Care Business Canada for updates on this exciting journey and more news from the forefront of the eyecare industry.

 

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Goals Based Investing: 5 Reasons Why It Matters

Finance|Wealth

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Top 5 for goal based investment

The new year is a time when we reassess our goals in an effort to align our actions to get us to where we want to go. The same holds true for investing. There has been much talk over the last several years regarding modern portfolio theory (MPT) and the use of exchange traded funds (ETF), but little discussion about why these often don’t perform as well as you would like.

Let’s take a look at 5 reasons why your goals should be front and centre when it comes to investing.

  1. Risk Management

Sure, everyone wants to make as much money as they can – but with that comes risk. If you are saving to purchase your first home in the next 1-2 years, you really don’t want to risk the loss of any capital. If your retirement is 35 years away, then you can take on more risk with those funds. If you know that you are saving money for no other purpose but to build intergenerational wealth, then you may even be comfortable taking on some speculative risk. Match your asset allocation accordingly. How much risk you can manage is a function of not only who you are, but also what goals you are saving for.

  1. Measure Progress

A goal, most often, will have a timeline attached to it. You may need $60,000 for a down payment and closing costs of your first home. Understanding the target amount has a deadline, you can make better decisions as to how much and where to place your savings dollars.

  1. Understanding Financial Behaviour

Behavioural finance is a growing field because we know the impact emotions have on our investing decisions. When you understand your goal and the related risk you can take on to meet that goal, you are better prepared to intellectually manage your asset allocation. Self reasoning can be a double edged sword, so you want to ensure that before you hit buy or sell, that the assets and their expected performance actually align with your goals. Reviewing the markets on a regular basis won’t help you reach your goals, but it will create a level of anxiety that isn’t beneficial.

  1. Adaptability and Flexibility

You may not have been able to set aside enough savings to meet your home purchase desires in the time frame outlined, but by reviewing your saving pattern, you will have a better idea on how to adjust your timeframe or home purchase value in a realistic fashion. Likewise, maybe skipping the drive through on the way home is your best option to meet your savings goal. Understanding your goals makes it easier to make spending decisions.

  1. Measure What is Truly Important

At the end of the day, it doesn’t really matter what your rate of return was if you can’t meet your goals. It doesn’t matter if there is excess if you have nothing of worth to enjoy it on. Clients typically want to know if they can afford their bucket list trip or have enough to help their children with their education. These are the things that really matter.

Goals-based investing is an integral part of financial planning. It encourages you to assess your current financial situation, determine your future needs, and develop a plan to achieve those needs. This process often involves prioritizing your spending, saving, and making strategic financial decisions in alignment with your goals. In the end, it really is all about peace of mind knowing that you are heading in the direction of your dreams.

For more sound financial tips from Dr. Arnal, visit the Financial | Wealth section of the site.  

Advisory

As your Chief Financial Officer, I am here to help you make smart financial decisions that align with your business growth, personal wealth creation strategy and long term interests. Helping you understand your money and assisting you in making smart decisions about your debt repayment, insurance protection, tax management and wealth creation, are just some of ways that I work as your fiduciary.

Have more questions than answers? Educating you is just one piece of being your personal CFO that we excel in. Call (780-261-3098) or email (Roxanne@C3wealthadvisors.ca) today to set up your next conversation with us.

Roxanne Arnal is a former Optometrist, Professional Corporation President, and practice owner. Today she is on a mission to Empower You & Your Wealth with Clarity, Confidence & Control.

These articles are for information purposes only and are not a replacement for personal financial planning. Everyone’s circumstances and needs are different. Errors and Omissions exempt.

 

 

ROXANNE ARNAL,

Optometrist and Certified Financial Planner

Roxanne Arnal graduated from UW School of Optometry in 1995 and is a past-president of the Alberta Association of Optometrists (AAO) and the Canadian Association of Optometry Students (CAOS).  She subsequently built a thriving optometric practice in rural Alberta.

Roxanne took the decision in  2012 to leave optometry and become a financial planning professional.  She now focuses on providing services to Optometrists with a plan to parlay her unique expertise to help optometric practices and their families across the country meet their goals through astute financial planning and decision making.

Roxanne splits EWO podcast hosting duties with Dr. Glen Chiasson.

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Unveiling NextGEN Hybrid Meeting 2024: Your Optometry Future Awaits!

Career Options, NextGenOD

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NextGEN OD Canada

Eye Care Business Canada is thrilled to present the NextGEN Hybrid Meeting 2024!

Hosted by Eye Care Business Canada in collaboration with our dedicated NextGEN Student Ambassadors, this event promises to be an invaluable information and networking event for Canadian optometry students in both Canada and the US.

Get ready to unlock the doors to a wealth of insights, connections, and opportunities that will shape your optometry journey.

Speakers to Inspire:

We’re excited to announce our incredible lineup of speakers who will share their experiences and wisdom. Drs. Alexa Hecht (OD, UW 2021) and Amrit Bilkhu (OD, Illinois 2019) will co-present, offering valuable insights into their optometry journeys.

But that’s not all! Stay tuned for more speaker announcements, including spokespersons from leading Canadian eye care organizations who will grace our podium.

Agenda Highlights:

Here’s a sneak peek at what’s in store:

  1. Presentations from Recent Students: Gain valuable insights and tips from recent graduates who have walked the optometry path.
  2. Words of Wisdom from Subject Matter Experts: Learn from esteemed experts in the field who will provide guidance and knowledge.
  3. Networking Opportunities: Connect with industry suppliers, fellow optometry enthusiasts, and Canadian OD students across North America.
  4. Delectable Buffet: Savor delicious food options during the event, with a complimentary drink ticket for a refreshing experience.
  5. Exciting Raffle Prizes: Get ready for a chance to win fantastic prizes through our raffle.

Event Details:

  • Date: March 28th, 2024  starting at 6:15 PM Live and Online at 7:00 PM
  • Location: Live presentations at the University of Waterloo, simulcast to Canadian Optometry students studying in the USA, including watch parties at NECO, MCPHS, and Michigan College hosted by NextGEN OD Student Ambassadors.

Sponsor Spotlight:

The event has a full slate of sponsors from leading Canadian eye care organizations. Visionary Sponsors include Bausch + Lomb Canada, FYidoctors, IRIS Group, Specsavers, and CRO (Clinical & Refractive Optometry). The support of these industry leaders is invaluable.

Our Horizon level partners include Eye Recommend, OSI (Optometric Services Inc.), and ROI Corporation, making this event a true collaboration of industry excellence.

Don’t Miss Out:

This is your opportunity to connect, learn, and grow in the world of optometry. Whether you join us in person at the live venue or online, you’re in for an enjoyable experience.

Learn more about the NextGEN Hybrid Meeting 2024 and reserve your spot today! Visit our event website at www.eyecarebusiness.ca/nextgenod/nextgen2024-landing-page/.

Mark your calendars, spread the word, and get ready to embark on an exciting journey into the future of optometry.

Learn More and Reserve Your Spot

 

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The Power of Emotional Intelligence and Empathy in Building Meaningful Connections

Human Resources, Managing Others

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Emotional intelligence Two people talking with serious expressions

In our whirlwind, interconnected world, the art of navigating the intricate tapestry of human emotions is more critical than ever. Emotional intelligence (EI) and empathy stand out as beacons, guiding us to forge positive relationships, enhance leadership, and create a harmonious work environment.

Scenario:

Picture this: you’re caught in a recurring conversation with a co-worker. They’re trapped in a whirlpool of frustration and despair over a repeating issue, blind to the fact that they are the common thread in these situations. There you are, offering a listening ear to a tale that’s turning from familiar to tiresome.

You value this co-worker and the bond you share, but this repetitive cycle is starting to fray the edges of your patience. The solution seems to shimmer so clearly before you – a minor tweak in their behavior could sweep away mountains of stress. Yet, despite your repeated advice, they seem ensnared in their patterns, unready or unwilling to grasp the lifeline you offer.

Realizing that you can’t repaint their behavioral patterns, how do you preserve the warmth of this relationship? Must it be a never-ending cycle until professional paths diverge?

It doesn’t have to be. This is your moment to flex your empathy muscles.

Understanding Empathy:

Empathy, a cornerstone of emotional intelligence, is the art of walking in another’s shoes, feeling the contours of their experiences. It’s not just about offering sympathy; it’s about genuinely connecting with and understanding others’ emotions. Empathy is a dance of two steps: cognitive empathy, understanding someone’s perspective, and emotional empathy, feeling what they feel.

Empathetic individuals are like emotional detectives, adept at deciphering and resonating with the feelings of others, laying the groundwork for deep, meaningful connections. This trait is invaluable in all relationships, paving the way for mutual understanding, trust, and collaboration.

Person in thought

The Link Between Emotional Intelligence and Empathy:

Though distinct, emotional intelligence and empathy are intertwined like strands of a DNA helix. Emotional intelligence is the bedrock of understanding and managing one’s emotions, with empathy extending this understanding to others. A person rich in emotional intelligence naturally exudes empathy, armed with the self-awareness and social skills to forge profound connections.

In the workplace, leaders who blend emotional intelligence with empathy excel in sculpting robust, unified teams. They are maestros who understand the diverse emotional landscapes of their team, cultivating a positive, inclusive atmosphere. This harmony not only boosts morale but also sparks productivity and creativity.

dartboard with a bullseye

Benefits of Emotional Intelligence and Empathy:

  1. Improved Communication: Those with a rich tapestry of emotional intelligence are maestros in communication. They not only articulate their own thoughts and emotions with clarity but are also attuned to the unspoken languages of others. This dual awareness leads to conversations that are not just heard, but deeply understood.
  2. Conflict Resolution: Understanding and managing emotions are pivotal in diffusing conflicts. Emotionally intelligent individuals navigate disagreements with grace, seeking solutions that are not just compromises, but triumphs for all involved.
  3. Enhanced Leadership: Leaders adorned with emotional intelligence and empathy are like lighthouses, guiding their teams with authenticity and trust. Their empathetic approach fosters a culture of positivity and inclusion, resonating throughout the organization.
  4. Building Strong Relationships: In both personal and professional realms, emotional intelligence and empathy are the golden threads that weave strong, enduring relationships. This emotional connection cultivates trust, loyalty, and mutual support, fortifying bonds that withstand the test of time.

To conclude, emotional intelligence and empathy are not just skills, but essential life tools for navigating the complex web of human relationships. As our world grows ever more interconnected, our ability to understand and connect with others emotionally is not just beneficial, but imperative for personal and professional growth. By nurturing emotional intelligence, we not only sharpen our self-awareness and self-regulation but also kindle empathetic connections that enrich our lives and the lives around us. Embracing the transformative power of emotional intelligence and empathy, we pave the way for a more compassionate, harmonious society.

 

Jade Bodzasy

Jade Bodzasy

Jade Bodzasy, Founder of Emotional Intelligence Consulting Inc., is a dedicated Coach and Consultant for Optometric Practices. Her extensive background includes over 20,000 hours of expertise focused on customer relations, work structure refinement, training method development, and fostering improved work culture within Optometric practices.

Certified in Rational Emotive Behavior Techniques (REBT), Jade possesses a unique skillset that empowers individuals to gain profound insights into the origins of their behaviors, as well as those of others. Leveraging her certification, she equips optometry practices with invaluable resources and expert guidance to establish and sustain a positive, healthful, and productive work environment.

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FYihealth Group Announces Trevor Bartlett as New COO

Human Resources, Leadership, NextGenOD, Sponsors

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FYihealth group adds a new face to its senior leadership team: Trevor Bartlett. Joining as Chief Operating Officer, Bartlett’s extensive background includes experience in large, fast-growing companies such as Sobeys, Rexall, and Giant Tiger. Bartlett will be overseeing FYihealth group’s Operations, Retail Optical, Product, Supply Chain, and Marketing.

“The team is excited to have Trevor join us,” expresses Dr. Alan Ulsifer, CEO and Chair of FYihealth group, “Trevor understands how important our culture is and has been a highly respected and admired leader throughout his career. He exemplifies our organization’s values and operates as a team player and coach. His retail experience will help bring us a new perspective as we continue to expand our market share in Canada and provide essential eye health services to Canadians.”

Bartlett will bring a new “lens” to the FYihealth group business along with his passion for consumers, patients and developing talent. He shared “I look forward to bringing my retail experiences from food, pharmacy, and general merchandise to the FYihealth group. I have a passion for connecting retail products and services to consumers, ultimately creating a tailored solution unique to them.”

FYihealth group was named one of Canada’s Top Growing Companies in 2022 and 2023 by Globe and Mail’s Report on Business. The addition of Bartlett is part of the organization’s strategy to continue its growth in 2024, with plans to continue its expansion to provide eye care access to more Canadians.

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Using Virtual Reality Headsets in Optometric Offices

Independent SightLines

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Have you ever played a game in one of those modern VR headsets? To the outside world it appears you are swinging wildly at ghosts because on the inside you are swinging wildly at ghosts?!

Well, get ready because VR headsets have become mainstream in optometry offices. The greater mobility of the testing equipment has led to potential for better office and workflow efficiencies and greater patient accessibility.

In the Lane Testing

Having multiple exam lanes for each optometrist improves patient flow, reduces patient waiting times and allows for greater efficiency at deploying medical personnel. Instead of the optometrist waiting for a patient to be “set up” in the exam room, the doctor can be examining a patient in the other room. This efficiency translates to better revenue per doctor day (and improved compensation) as well as improved bottom line net profitability. With the advent of in-lane VR headset testing a patient can “start” the pre-exam testing in the comfort and privacy of an exam lane.

Consistency and Reduced Staff Time

The VR headsets allow for a “virtual” technician that guides the patient through the testing process. This provides a consistent process with consistent education and testing instruction provided to each patient. A patient can be “left” in the exam room and run the testing on their own. As patient testing autonomy becomes more commonplace, the process will become an expected part of the testing and patient education during the eye exam. In many multi-doctor optometry offices, the pretest room has become the bottleneck for office patient flow. The advent of advanced scanning such as OCT and super wide-field fundus photography has changed the optometrist’s role from data gathering to data analysis and treatment plan formulation.

AI and Data Analysis

With the advent of artificial intelligence and machine learning, the opportunity to provide AI Insights for optometric practitioners is now here. Universal VR testing platforms can easily send data and testing results to cloud based telehealth platforms for analysis and AI insights as a adjunctive practitioner support to the patient treatment plan. RetinaLogik is a Canadian based VR headset that is using AI to support practitioners in the care of their patients.

Cloud-based data management companies can further provide objective feedback and AI insights. Care1 is a Canadian telehealth company that has developed objective drusen volume computations. This will allow for treatment analysis as new technologies for the treatment of dry AMD become available for patients inside optometric settings.

Binocularity for All with Marketing Support

Neurolens has recently launched their mobile VR headset N3, which provides the ability to run phorias and fixation disparity via a VR headset. The interesting aspect to their set up is that optionally the patient can learn more about solutions and opt in to further discussions with their optometrist and optometric staff. This makes the sales process more streamlined and consistent. One of the powerful realizations of VR testing is the “wow effect” that patients experience during the testing process. This increases the perceived value of the eye exam and improves capture rates and patient retention.

Future Applications

Many of the software companies that offer virtual reality testing are using the same hardware headset. This may lead to future consolidation so multiple pre-exam tests can be provided without changing headsets. The potential for patients to further streamline the examination process exists in that patients could come in for technician standalone pretesting to improve the exam day workflows. Testing remote populations and at-home testing are becoming a likely outcome with these new mobile technologies. In our offices we see the opportunity to reduce patient logjams in pre-exam on the fly. Technicians can decide to run visual acuity testing, visual fields, colour vision, and other testing away from the pretesting room to reduce patient wait times. The time to welcome VR testing in our optometric offices has arrived!

DR. TREVOR MIRANDA

Dr. Miranda is a partner in a multi-doctor, five-location practice on Vancouver Island.

He is a strong advocate for true Independent Optometry.

As a serial entrepreneur, Trevor is constantly testing different patient care and business models at his various locations. Many of these have turned out to be quite successful, to the point where many of his colleagues have adopted them into their own practices. His latest project is the Optometry Unleashed podcast.

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OGS Earns Four-Star Rating From Charity Navigator

Human Resources, Leadership, NextGenOD, Sponsors

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Optometry Giving Sight 4-start rating

Optometry Giving Sight (OGS) has earned a Four-Star Rating from Charity Navigator for its strong financial health, ongoing accountability and transparency. This rating designates Optometry Giving Sight as an official “Give with Confidence” charity, indicating that OGS is using its donations effectively based on Charity Navigator’s criteria.

Charity Navigator is America’s largest and most utilized independent charity evaluator. Since 2001, the organization has been an unbiased and trusted source of information for more than 11 million donors annually.

Charity Navigator analyzes non-profit performance based on four key indicators, referred to as beacons. Currently, non-profits can earn scores for the Impact & Results, Accountability & Finance, Culture & Community, and Leadership & Adaptability beacons.

“We are delighted to provide Optometry Giving Sight with third-party accreditation that validates their operational excellence,” said Michael Thatcher, President and CEO of Charity Navigator. “The Four-Star Rating is the highest possible rating an organization can achieve. We are eager to see the good work that OGS is able to accomplish in the years ahead.”

“Our Four-Star Charity Navigator rating is further validation that our supporters can trust our commitment to good governance and financial health,” said OGS Executive Director Lois Schoenbrun, CAE (Ret.), FAAO. “As we work with our partners to eliminate unnecessary vision impairment in the U.S. and around the world, we want our donors to know that we appreciate them and value their trust in us.”

Optometry Giving Sight supports sustainable and scalable optometry-led programs that educate eye care providers locally and enable the establishment and delivery of vision care and eye health to all. In 2023 alone, OGS is funding 21 programs globally, totaling more than $900,000 USD.

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