dpietrobon, Author at Eye Care Business Canada

Future Focus 2026: What Canadian Optometry Students in USA Need to Know

Registration Now Open for the January 27 Cross-Border Online Event

The NextGEN OD Canada team is excited to share early details for Future Focus 2026, our annual event series designed to support Canadian optometry students wherever they are on their training path — in Canada, in the U.S., or considering a move across the border for residency. This year’s program opens with a timely online session dedicated to the questions Canadian students ask most.

📅 January 27, 2026 — “Cross-Border Guidance” Online Event

8:00 p.m. ET – Online
Register now: https://vuepoint.ac-page.com/future-focus-jan-2026-what-canadians-need-to-know

This one-evening virtual event brings together expert voices and lived experience to help students better understand the practical realities of crossing borders for optometry education, residency training, and eventual practice.

The evening begins with a legal expert who will break down the key considerations every Canadian should know before heading to (or returning from) the United States — from visas and lesser-known administrative hurdles that can shape your next steps.

From there, the conversation moves into a Pathways Chat featuring Dr. Scott, President of the Canadian Association of Optometrists, alongside Dr. Alexandra Baillie, a recent Canadian graduate of a U.S. optometry program.

Together, they’ll offer candid perspectives on navigating cross-border decisions, building career momentum, and preparing for practice on either side of the border. The discussion will be moderated by Nyah Miranda (OD 4 – NECO) who will guide the conversation toward the questions students ask most often.

The event also includes a chance to connect with commercial sponsors actively looking to hire optometrists. It’s a unique opportunity to learn what today’s employers are prioritizing, make early connections, and get a clearer sense of what your future career path might look like.

📅 Save the Date: April 2, 2026 — In-Person Future Focus Event

University of Waterloo School of Optometry
Starts at 5:00 p.m. ET

We’ll be back at the University of Waterloo this spring for an in-person Future Focus event. Program details, speaker information, and registration will be announced early in the new year — but for now, please mark your calendar.

More updates are coming soon.
Follow NextGEN OD Canada for announcements — and make sure you secure your spot for January 27.

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Office Upgrading Just Before Selling?

Buying-Selling A Practice, Practice

THE KITCHEN AND BATHROOM CONSPIRACY.

Real estate agents often tell us to upgrade our kitchens and bathrooms–along with other advice such as decluttering–before we put a house on the market for sale. I totally agree with decluttering, and I also agree with a minor improvement in aesthetics.

But I do not agree with investing tens of thousands into kitchens and bathrooms. There are several reasons why.

The first is that you will live through 3 to 6 months of renovation just before selling your home – and that is not fun. It’s exceedingly difficult to clean and declutter when contractors are adding clutter and dust every day.

You will not enjoy the new kitchen and bathroom for long, as you are moving to a new property. The cost of dining out—or ordering in—while the kitchen is being renovated is expensive. Budget $100 to $150 per day.

I have tried using the kitchen during a renovation. The microwave was on a scaffold, the fridge was in the hallway, the kettle was in the laundry room, and the dishes were in the bathroom we weren’t renovating.

I do not want to do that again–particularly as I get older. Who wants to live through the mess?

Should I upgrade my equipment?

Let’s talk about your practice. You might be told that adding or upgrading equipment and technology prior to sale will make your practice more attractive to the buyer.

Ask them: “What is the evidence that I’ll make a profit over and above what I invest?” Whatever the answer, I disagree–and here’s why.

You won’t have much time to enjoy the new technology. Your staff will not have enough time to adapt and make it profitable and therefore, it does not have a good return on investment (ROI) if you are going to own it and use it for one year or less.

The cost of the equipment is another factor altogether–plus any warranties, maintenance, and training cycles, all of which you must pay.

Direct and indirect costs (disruption) must be considered. What about the value of the equipment you already have that is going to be replaced? Should you just donate it or send it to the scrapyard?

I can tell you, we achieve incredible resale prices for superior-quality, well-maintained equipment that is sometimes 20 or more years old.

Baby boomers—say it with me: “They don’t make them like they used to!” Buyers like cool, shiny gadgets–I get that. But they do not like to pay for them at the pilot stages of their career, even though that is what some brokers want to tell you.

Buyer Beware (of the Seller)!

The equipment and diagnostic industry is in the business of selling products. If you are a loyal client of theirs and you tell them that you are thinking of selling, they know that there is a good chance that the new owner may choose another supplier.

This might be your rep’s last crack at getting some equipment sold into your practice. I am not accusing anyone of pressuring you or using suspect tactics. Dealers are trying to sell you products and services every day of the week anyway.

So, there is really nothing new here. It is just that when they say that adding this gadgetry and shiny, fancy equipment prior to sale will generate a profit, I do not think it will. In fact, I think it will cost you money in the short term to implement the new equipment and technology.

And I do not think buyers are going to pay you more for the equipment than you paid for it one year earlier because, why would they do that, it is now used equipment?

The value of your practice may go up by the value of the equipment you bought, less what you disposed of, and less depreciation (20% in year one).

Factor in a loss of profit or productivity because of the disruption, so it might lower your goodwill.

Conclusion

I do not see any profit in a last-minute upgrade. Do not buy into the line that you need to put in a new kitchen or bathroom just before selling your home.

The Realtor makes more money, and you don’t!

Are you seeking to understand the value of your practice?
Contact Jackie Joachim
Jackie has personally been involved in approximately 10,000 appraisals since joining ROI Corporation. She has had the privilege of appraising optometric, chiropractic, dental, and veterinary practices throughout Canada. Jackie understands how a practice works and the unique needs of healthcare professionals. Her personal goal for practitioners is to see them be strong business people who are able to take pride in their profession and reap the benefits of their hard work. Please contact her at Jackie.joachim@roicorp.com or call 1-844-764-2020.

Timothy A. Brown

Timothy A. Brown is the CEO and Broker of Record for ROI Corporation and has served the professions since 1979. His broad experience in clinical practice systems includes: appraisal, brokerage, leasing, and practice management. While Timothy’s domain expertise is largely from the dental world, as head of ROI Corporation, his experience has applicability across other health practice disciplines including Optometry and Opticianry.

Timothy is a Registered & Licensed Ontario Real Estate and Business Broker (Principal). He also voluntarily completed the Ethics and Business Practice course from the Real Estate Institute of Canada. He clearly understands dentists and has his finger firmly on the pulse of the dental practice marketplace in Canada.

He can be reached at timothy@roicorp.com or 416.520.7420.

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Cybersecurity Basics for Optometry Clinics Using Electronic Medical Records

Practice, Technology

Optometry clinics are increasingly relying on Electronic Medical Records (EMRs) to manage all aspects of patient data—from scheduling appointments and processing payments to storing sensitive health information. While this digital transformation brings convenience and efficiency, it also introduces real risks if data is not properly protected from cyber threats.

Cybersecurity may sound technical, but at its core, it’s about keeping patient health information private and secure. Just as physical files are locked in a cabinet, digital records must be protected from hackers, accidental leaks, or unauthorized access by employees.

Protecting patients’ information is not only a legal requirement but an ethical responsibility. In Canada, optometrists must comply with privacy laws that govern the handling of Personal Health Information (PHI).

Understanding Your Legal Responsibilities

The federal privacy law, the Personal Information Protection and Electronic Documents Act (PIPEDA), applies to most private-sector businesses, including optometry clinics that collect and store PHI. Clinics are required to:
• Obtain consent when collecting, using, or disclosing patient information
• Use and store patient data only for legitimate healthcare purposes
• Take reasonable steps to protect data from theft, loss, or unauthorized access
• Respond quickly to breaches and inform affected individuals

In addition to PIPEDA, certain provinces—such as Alberta, British Columbia, and Quebec—have adopted their own privacy laws that align with federal standards. Other provinces, including Ontario, New Brunswick, Nova Scotia, and Newfoundland and Labrador, also have similar legislation. For example, in Ontario, clinics must comply with the Personal Health Information Protection Act (PHIPA). Failure to follow these laws can lead to fines, legal consequences, and reputational harm.

Choose an EMR That Meets Canadian Privacy Standards

Not all optometry Electronic Medical Record (EMR) systems are created with Canadian privacy laws in mind. It is essential to ensure that the software in use meets PIPEDA-compliant standards.

Ask the following questions:

Where is the data stored? PIPEDA recommends that PHI be stored within Canada.
Is the data encrypted? Data should be unreadable if stolen.
Can staff access be limited by role?
Does the system maintain an audit trail (logs of who accessed or edited records)?

Control Staff Access with Role-Based Permissions

EMRs should be configured so that each staff member only sees what they need to perform their job. This is called Role-Based Access Control (RBAC).
For example:
• Front desk staff can book appointments but shouldn’t access clinical test results.
• Technicians may view imaging files but not billing information.

Limiting access protects patient data and makes it easier to review audit logs for unusual activity.

Regularly Monitor EMR Access Logs

Your EMR software should track logins, file access, and changes made to records. Audit logs help detect suspicious activity such as:
• Repeated failed login attempts
• Logins during off-hours
• Employees accessing records without a legitimate reason

Review these logs at least monthly to catch problems early.

Back Up Your Data—And Test It

Even with strong security, disasters can happen: hardware failures, ransomware attacks, or human error. Backups are essential.

Backups should be:
• Performed daily
• Stored securely in Canada (cloud or off-site)
• Tested regularly to ensure quick restoration

An untested backup is nearly as risky as no backup at all.

Train Your Team to Avoid Cyber Risks

Most cybersecurity incidents stem from human error. Mistakes like clicking malicious links, sharing weak passwords, or emailing PHI to the wrong recipient can lead to serious breaches.

All staff should receive annual cyber safety training covering:

How to identify phishing and suspicious emails
Safe handling of emails and messages containing PHI
Strong passwords, Multi-Factor Authentication (MFA), and avoiding reused credentials
Importance of logging out of EMRs when not in use
How to report suspicious activity or data breaches

Cybersecurity: A Shared Responsibility

Cybersecurity doesn’t have to be complicated—it’s about protecting your patients and your clinic. By following basic best practices, you can ensure compliance with privacy laws and maintain trust with your patients.

Here’s a quick checklist:
☑ Use PIPEDA-compliant EMR software
☑ Limit access based on job roles
☑ Track who is accessing the EMR
☑ Back up and test data regularly
☑ Train users annually on cybersecurity basics

Maryam Moharib, BOptom, BHSc, CSPO, CAPM

Maryam holds degrees in Health Sciences from the University of Ottawa and in Optometry from Anglia Ruskin University in Cambridge, England. She has dedicated many years to working alongside ophthalmologists in refractive surgical clinics, where she gained significant experience in clinical training and in EMR implementation for various software platforms.

Maryam has also worked as a certified product owner with an EMR software company where she played a key role in effectively bridging the gap between clinical needs and technology. Additionally, her certification in project management from the Project Management Institute has equipped her with the skills to lead implementation and transformative clinic projects successfully.

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Specsavers Announce Rebrand of Loblaws Opticals

Practice, Products | Services | Industry News, Sponsored Posts

Specsavers Canada and Loblaw Companies Limited have announced a significant retail transition that will see 111 existing Theodore & Pringle optical locations rebranded as Specsavers.

The initiative will begin rolling out in September 2025 and take place within Loblaws, Real Canadian Superstore, and Zehrs grocery stores across Canada.

Strategic Transition Aims to Enhance Eye Care Access

The move reflects a strategic collaboration between the two companies, designed to maintain continuity of care for existing patients while introducing Specsavers’ clinical model and technology infrastructure. Each location will be equipped with Optical Coherence Tomography (OCT) to support early detection of sight-threatening conditions.

New Presence in Five Provinces and One Territory

In addition to reinforcing Specsavers’ presence in Ontario, British Columbia, Alberta, and Manitoba, the agreement extends the brand’s reach into New Brunswick, Newfoundland and Labrador, Nova Scotia, Prince Edward Island, and Saskatchewan, as well as the Yukon.

The rebranded clinics will continue to offer comprehensive eye exams, prescription eyewear, contact lenses, and diagnostic services, delivered by optometrists and opticians.

Statements from Leadership

“This transition represents a pivotal moment for eye care accessibility in Canada,” said Bill Moir, Managing Director of Specsavers Canada. “By opening 111 new locations within trusted Loblaw locations, we’re fundamentally improving how Canadians access the eye care they deserve.”

Irene Doody, Head of Optical at Loblaw Companies Limited, added: “Specsavers’ reputation for accessible eye care aligns perfectly with our purpose — to help Canadians live life well. This partnership ensures a seamless experience for our optical customers.”

Theodore & Pringle Brand to Be Retired

The existing Theodore & Pringle brand will be phased out as locations are converted over the coming months. The transition is expected to be smooth for patients and customers, with no disruption in service.

View the full Specsavers press release.

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Why Online Practice Visibility Matters More Than Ever

Digital Marketing, Marketing

AI is not just changing how patients search. It is changing what shows up and what they actually see. Visibility today is about shaping the digital signals that AI platforms rely on to guide patient decisions.

Ask most practice owners what visibility means

You will hear a range of answers: being on Google, showing up in search, posting on social media. But all of those channels have evolved and so has the way patients engage with them. Visibility is not only about being found; it is about being chosen. In a post-AI landscape, how your practice is seen matters just as much as where it appears.

AI changed the optics, literally

Until recently, most patients searched for care using familiar tools like Google Maps, “near me” searches, or Instagram location tags. But with the rise of large language models such as ChatGPT, Google’s AI Overviews, and Perplexity, a new shift has taken place. AI is now interpreting your entire online presence for the patient.

Patients can ask a question like:
“What is the best eye doctor near me who takes time with patients?”

Instead of offering a list of websites, AI now delivers a direct response based on patterns pulled from reviews, business listings, social posts, and web content.

If your practice has the right signals in place, it can become the answer. If those signals are missing, if your reviews are generic, your Google Business Profile is outdated, or your website lacks specific content on common conditions, your practice may not be shown at all.

Your practice is a data source, whether you know it or not

Here is what many practices have not yet realized: you do not need to opt in for AI tools to pull your data. These systems are already scanning and summarizing the public web, including:

Your Google Business Profile (Get Started)
Patient reviews
Instagram captions and hashtags
Website content and FAQs
Online articles or directories

AI platforms like OpenAI’s models and Google’s new Overviews are not just scanning one post or listing. They are gathering information from dozens or even hundreds of sources and using those signals to generate a synthesized, direct answer to the patient’s question.

Your practice is not judged by a single listing or blog post. It is being interpreted based on the totality of your digital presence across platforms, formats, and third-party mentions.

The story AI tells about your practice is not based on what you say. It is based on what the internet says about you. And in many cases, that story is incomplete or outdated.

Discoverability has a new layer

Traditional local search focused on:

Proximity / Location
Keyword relevance
Website performance

These factors still matter, but AI has added a new layer of context. It now considers:

Does your content answer patient-specific questions?
Do your reviews speak to real outcomes?
Are you mentioned or referenced outside of your own website?

AI does not simply collect information. It summarizes it. This means surface-level SEO and generic descriptions are no longer enough. Your online presence must be specific, consistent, and rich with meaningful signals.

Today’s platforms:

Scan 30, 50, even 100 sources at once
Pull patterns, phrasing, and consensus from across the web
Deliver a single answer, often without showing the user where that answer came from

Instead of a potential patient clicking on your website or blog, the AI is summarizing what it already knows about your practice—based on everything else it can find.

Visibility is an ecosystem, not a checklist

Many practices still approach visibility as a list of tasks:

But in today’s search landscape, visibility depends on how those pieces connect.

When your Google profile is active, your reviews are recent and detailed, and your content reflects your expertise, it creates a trust signal that platforms recognize.

This kind of visibility is not a one-time marketing effort. It is a living system that supports long-term discoverability.

What this means for your practice

Every practice can improve visibility using tools it already has access to. Patient reviews are one of the most powerful and underutilized visibility signals. Reviews that mention the doctor’s name, the condition treated, and the city are especially effective. For example:

“Dr. Morris in Whitby helped me manage my dry eye, and now I can get through the workday without discomfort.”

This kind of review is not just about reputation. It gives search engines and AI platforms the information they need to understand your relevance and local connection.

Practices that start investing in this type of clarity and specificity now will be in a stronger position as AI-driven discovery continues to evolve.

Being seen no longer depends on just having a website or a few good keywords. Visibility today is about shaping the signals that patients and platforms rely on to make decisions.

Louise Courville

Louise Courville is a visibility strategist and founder of EYE Reputation, an agency built to help eye care practices increase visibility across Google, social, and AI platforms.

She brings decades of experience in the optical industry and over eight years in digital marketing. Louise writes about how search, AI, and trust signals are reshaping the way patients find eye care online.

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I HAVE AN STD! But Not That Kind.

Buying-Selling A Practice, Finance|Wealth, Practice, Sponsored Posts

Before you alert public health—relax. The STD I have is a Short-Term Disability. Though, if we’re handing out awards for poor judgment and pain tolerance, I may qualify for a few more acronyms. Let me explain.

Over the May long weekend, I had a brilliant idea: refurbish the old dock at my cottage. Nothing like a little lakeside construction to celebrate spring, right?

Unfortunately, this idea had all the makings of a tragicomedy. I slipped—gracefully, I might add—into the lake. On the way down, I caught my ribcage on an exposed beam. The kind of “crack” that doesn’t come from a cold beer.

Fairly sure I fractured two or three ribs, but who’s counting when you’re crying into an ice pack? I haven’t gone to radiology. This isn’t my first rodeo—or rib rodeo, to be specific. The pain is… memorable. If I even think about sneezing, my entire body files a formal complaint. Laughing is dangerous. Coughing? I wouldn’t wish it on my worst enemy.

I’ve been self-medicating with a gentle blend of Tylenol, Advil, and optimism. My physician, a wise and legally cautious man, refused to prescribe anything stronger over the phone. Frankly, I don’t blame him. If I were him, I wouldn’t trust me with narcotics either.

To add insult to the injury, I also managed to catch a protruding screw on the way down and carve a charming little gash into my leg. Stitches? Probably needed. First aid? Let’s just say it was creative. The nearest hospital is an hour away, and so far, my bandage job has held. Duct tape was considered.

Here’s the thing: I do have short-term disability insurance. But because I can still type with my fingers—and because complaining publicly counts as therapy—I’m not making a claim.

But imagine if I were a practicing dentist or optometrist. You’ve got full days booked, patients lined up, procedures stacked, and suddenly, bam—you can’t even bend over without blacking out. Canceling a week of work could cost $15,000 to $20,000 in lost revenue. That’s an expensive tumble.

This is your friendly reminder: get disability insurance.
Accidents don’t discriminate. They don’t check your calendar. And they love to show up during long weekends.

More importantly: Ø Wear proper footwear. Ø Don’t rush the job. Ø Leave dock repair to professionals. So yes, I have an STD. Short-Term Dumbness. Stay safe out there. Stay insured. And for the love of your ribcage—respect the dock.

Are you seeking to understand the value of your practice?
Contact Jackie Joachim
Jackie has personally been involved in approximately 10,000 appraisals since joining ROI Corporation. She has had the privilege of appraising chiropractic, dental, optometry, and veterinary practices throughout Canada. Jackie understands how a practice works and the unique needs of healthcare professionals. Her personal goal for practitioners is to see them be strong business people who are able to take pride in their profession and reap the benefits of their hard work. Please contact her at Jackie.joachim@roicorp.com or call 1-844-764-2020.

Timothy A. Brown

He can be reached at timothy@roicorp.com or 416.520.7420.

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NextGEN Student Ambassadors Gain Valuable Experience at Clinical Summit Toronto

Career Options, NextGenOD

NextGEN ODs supporting the Clinical Summit

On June 22, the Clinical Summit: From Diagnosis to Management brought optometrists, clinical experts, and industry leaders together at Toronto’s Arcadia Earth for a day of accredited CE and professional networking — and two NextGEN OD Canada Student Ambassadors were right in the middle of the action! Event sponsors include Specsavers Canada, HOYA Vision, and CooperVision.

Elisa Haley and Shreya Jain, NextGEN OD Student Ambassadors — Left to right: Elisa Haley, Shreya Jain

Elisa Haley (UW 2028 OD Candidate) and Shreya Jain (UW 2027 OD Candidate) participated in the event as on-site ambassadors, assisting with CE registration on behalf of Clinical & Refractive Optometry (CRO) Journal, a division of VuePoint IDS.

For these future ODs, the event was more than just a work opportunity — it offered direct access to practicing optometrists, exposure to leading clinical experts, and the chance to expand their professional networks, all while being paid for their involvement!

The Clinical Summit delivered three accredited CE hours covering Myopia Management (Debbie Jones), OCT Pathology (Dr. Amit Gupta), and Cataract Surgery and Post-Op Care (Dr. Yogesh Patodia), along with an industry panel — Advancing Myopia Management: Clinical Strategies and Innovations — presented by CooperVision and HOYA Vision Care Canada.

Held in the immersive Arcadia Earth venue, which blends art and technology to inspire sustainability, the event provided a visually stunning backdrop for an inspiring day of learning and connection.

NextGEN OD Canada Student Ambassadors benefit from paid opportunities like this while gaining valuable real-world experience in Canada’s dynamic eye care community.

Interested in becoming a NextGEN Student Ambassador? [Learn more here.]

Check out our event photo gallery below — including pics of Shreya and Elisa in action!

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Cut Down on CL Dropouts and Keep Patients Happy

Differentiation | Business Strategy, Practice, Products | Services | Industry News

New research highlights the role of every staff member in improving satisfaction and retention

A newly published article in Clinical & Refractive Optometry (CRO) Journal sheds light on a persistent issue in the eye care profession—contact lens dropout. Despite advances in lens technology and patient education, nearly one in four new contact lens wearers discontinue use within their first year. The study, commissioned by the Contact Lens Institute and conducted by Prodege, surveyed 401 adults to identify factors that influence whether patients stick with—or give up on—contact lenses.

This peer-reviewed article, authored by Dr. Shalu Pal, is also available as a 1-hour accredited CE course at CROJournal.com, the online education platform from CRO Journal.

Satisfaction Gaps: A Call to Action

The study revealed a significant 19-point satisfaction gap between new wearers (67%) and long-term users (86%). This signals an opportunity for clinics to enhance the early experience of contact lens patients, with comfort, visual quality, and convenience emerging as key drivers of satisfaction.

On the flip side, dissatisfaction stemmed largely from cost, handling difficulties, and visual discomfort—factors that new wearers were particularly sensitive to.

The Power of the Entire Practice Team

One of the most compelling findings is the influence of the whole eye care team—not just the optometrist—on new wearers’ decisions to continue with lenses. From administrative staff to technicians and opticians, every interaction mattered.

In fact, 74% of new wearers said their eye doctor played a significant role in their decision to stick with contact lenses, compared to just 59% of long-term wearers. Opticians, optical staff, and front-desk teams were also seen as more influential by newer patients, reinforcing the importance of a team-based approach to patient care.

Targeted Strategies for Retention

The study outlines several actionable steps practices can take to reduce Contact Lens dropout:

Cost Conversations: New wearers were especially receptive to clear explanations of pricing, alternative lens options, and rebate availability.
Handling Support: Quick in-person or virtual follow-ups, extra training sessions, and selecting lenses with better handling characteristics were all effective.
Comfort and Vision Concerns: Listening to concerns, offering reassurance, and scheduling proactive check-ins ranked among the most valued actions by patients.

Proactive communication and personalized education were identified as critical tools in retaining new wearers and boosting long-term satisfaction.

Compliance Trends and Lifestyle Fit

Interestingly, 74% of new wearers said they followed their provider’s lens replacement schedule, compared to 65% of long-term wearers—suggesting that ongoing reinforcement of healthy habits is essential over time.

The study also emphasized the importance of lifestyle-centered prescribing. Patients were more likely to continue lens use if they believed it improved their lifestyle—offering freedom from glasses, better comfort, and visual confidence. For example, individuals using screens extensively or engaging in sports may benefit from specific lens types tailored to their needs.

Practice Implications

This study challenges the notion that dropout is inevitable. With a coordinated effort across the entire practice team and strategies designed to proactively address patient concerns, clinics can make a tangible difference.

Dr. Pal encourages clinics to re-evaluate how they train and empower every staff member to play a role in retention. From first impressions at reception to post-exam follow-ups, small changes can yield big results in turning new wearers into lifelong contact lens patients.

Take the Course

For eye care professionals interested in diving deeper, the full article, Disrupting Contact Lens Dropout: Practice-Centered Factors That Influence Continued Wear, is available as a 1-hour COPE-accredited CE course at www.crojournal.com.

By turning insights into action, your practice can not only reduce dropout but also build stronger, more loyal patient relationships.

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Does “Made in Canada” Matter to Canadian ECPs ?

Advertising & Promotion, Marketing, Practice, Specialty Practice

Country of Origin Survey of Canadian ECPs

With Canadian consumers increasingly prioritizing buying local, Eye Care Business Canada (ECBC) set out to explore whether this trend is influencing eye care professionals’ purchasing decisions for ophthalmic lenses, eyewear frames, finished jobs from optical labs and contact lenses.

Between February 9 – February 28, ECBC conducted a national survey to gauge awareness, preferences, and the impact of country of origin in optical purchasing decisions. (Note: The survey results were taken before the March 4 imposition of Canadian tariffs by the US Administration.)

Who Responded?

We received 131 responses from a mix of Canadian eye care professionals. Among them 64% were Optometrists and 76% of respondents worked in an independent Optometry Clinic. The remainder were split between Independent Optical Stores, Retail Chains, and Other practice settings .

This provides a strong representation of decision-makers in independent eye care practices, who are responsible for sourcing optical products for their patients.

Key Findings from the Survey

Limited Information on Country of Origin

The survey results reflect a substantial amount of uncertainty as to the country of origin of the products and services (e.g. lab services) they purchase, particularly in Contact Lenses.

Ophthalmic Lenses: Only 27% of respondents were “Very Certain” or “Often” aware of their origin.
Eyewear Frames: 55% had some awareness, but only 22% were “Very Certain”.
Contact Lenses: Awareness was lowest, with only 12% “Very Certain” of the country of origin.

This lack of transparency was reflected in participant comments:

“I would love to receive more information on where products are made if such information was available.”

“Even for those companies that say things are made in Canada, it is my understanding that many of the parts are made in other countries (Asia) and assembled in Canada to be able to be said that things are made in Canada. So it’s hard to know how much is being actually made in Canada.”

Even when frames are labeled as “Made in [Country X]”, it can be difficult to determine their true country of origin. Many frames are manufactured using a global supply chain, with different components—such as acetate sheets, hinges, screws, and temples—sourced from multiple countries.

For example, a frame may be designed in Canada, use acetate from Italy, hinges from Germany, and be assembled in China, yet still carry a single country label based on where final assembly took place. This makes it nearly impossible for ECPs and consumers to fully understand the true origin of their eyewear, even if country-of-origin information is available. The lack of transparency in sourcing and assembly practices adds another layer of complexity for those looking to prioritize Canadian-made or ethically sourced frames.

Preference for Canadian-Sourced Products

When asked where they would prefer their products to come from (assuming equal price and quality), the ECPs’ ranking was clear:

Preference on Country of Origin — Shows ECP Relative Preference for Country of Origin

A strong preference for Canadian-made products emerged, with Europe as the second choice. The USA ranked last, reflecting concerns over economic and political factors.

“More Canadian products will be WELL RECEIVED :)”

“It would be nice to have more Canadian options for frames especially.”

Would ECPs Switch to Canadian Alternatives?

If a product was not manufactured in Canada, would ECPs switch to a Canadian-made alternative (if available)?

53% said YES, they would make an effort to buy Canadian.
44% said MAYBE, depending on price, quality, and availability.
Only 2.5% said NO, they would continue buying as usual.

Several ECPs emphasized that Canadian manufacturers need to offer competitive pricing and quality to drive more local purchasing:

“I would hope that if there is a movement towards Canadian ECPs making an effort to purchase Canadian, the industry would provide great quality at good pricing. But we as a group have to make this shift.”

Are Patients Asking About Country of Origin?

One key question was whether patients care about where their eyewear products come from.

15% of ECPs said patients frequently ask about the country of origin.
40% said they are occasionally asked this question.
28% said it is rare, and 17% said they have never been asked.

Although this is not yet a dominant consumer concern, interest appears to be growing:

While many eyewear frames are manufactured in China or other countries, frames that are designed in Canada by Canadian-domiciled companies still contribute significantly to the Canadian economy. These companies drive local employment in design, marketing, distribution, and retail, and often reinvest profits back into the industry.

However, fully designed and manufactured in Canada frames remain uncommon, as most production facilities for acetate and metal frame components are located overseas. Even so, supporting Canadian-designed brands helps sustain innovation and strengthens the domestic optical industry despite the global nature of manufacturing.

“Since the tariff threats, many patients have asked about country of origin and specifically about Canadian-made products.”

“Although buying Canadian hasn’t been a priority in the past, with the recent climate, it has been brought up more and more. Both patients and staff members want to be consciously buying Canadian.”

ECPs who proactively communicate Canadian-made options noted that patients respond positively:

“I will bring up the Made in Canada products and most patients will appreciate the information and buy Canadian. This has been more pronounced over the past month.”

What Should ECPs Ask Their Suppliers?

With limited transparency around country of origin in the optical industry, Eye Care Professionals (ECPs) can take proactive steps by asking key questions to better understand where their products are coming from.

🔍 For Ophthalmic Lenses:

Are the lenses surfaced, coated, or edged in Canada, or fully imported?
If so from where?

🛠️ For Finished Jobs from Labs:

Where do the lab’s lenses come from?
Are coatings, edging services, assembly and Quality Assurance performed in Canada?

👓 For Frames:

Are the frames Canadian designed?
If the brand is Canadian, are the frames produced in Canada or sourced internationally?

By asking these questions, ECPs can make more informed purchasing decisions and advocate for greater transparency from their suppliers.

“We should all be more mindful of where products are made and be able to speak to that comfortably.”

Would your practice benefit from clearer country-of-origin labeling? Let us know in the comments!

Final Thoughts

This survey confirms that ECPs’ awareness of country of origin is limited, but there is strong preference for Canadian-made products among ECPs—if available at a competitive price and quality.

There is clear interest in greater transparency and a potential market opportunity for Canadian-based value-add in for optical goods and services providers.

Stay Tuned for More Insights!

Editors Note:
Eye Care Business Canada has done many surveys over the years, rarely to we have such a high percentage of engagement with open comments. Over 35% of respondents provided comments – a few of which we are unable to publish!! Canadian ECPs appear to be passionate about the topic!

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Optometric Practice Management Systems in Canada: The Survey Says…

Independent SightLines, Practice, Technology

Understanding State of Practice Management Systems in Canadian Optometry

In a recent independent survey of 167 Eye Care Professionals (ECPs) across Canada, Eye Care Business Canada asked users of the leading Practice Management Systems (PMS) to rate their awareness of and experience with the leading Canadian PMS brands.

The online study was conducted in February 2025 targeting optometric practice owners, managers, and system users in an optometric practice setting. Respondents were proportionally represented across all regions of Canada, ensuring a broad national perspective. The survey was conducted in English only.

Independent optometric practices represented 87% of all respondents, of which 4% operated in more than five locations.

Among many usage and attitude questions, the survey also measured Net Promoter Score (NPS), a widely used marketing research method to measure client satisfaction with a product or service based on the simple question: “How likely are you to recommend this service to a friend or colleague?”

A positive NPS (above 0) suggests that a system has more loyal advocates than detractors, while a negative NPS (below 0) indicates that dissatisfaction outweighs enthusiasm.

The results were striking: the aggregate NPS for all systems combined was negative 14, signaling widespread dissatisfaction with the software solutions designed to support eye care practices.

The study also explored the key factors influencing PMS selection, providing deeper insight into what optometric professionals value in their software solutions.

A Troubling Industry Trend
Of the ten Practice Management Systems reviewed, only two had a positive NPS—meaning a majority of their users were satisfied and were more likely to recommend them. The remaining had negative scores, contributing to the overall industry-wide negative 14 NPS.

This finding suggests that most ECPs have some level of dissatisfaction with their PMS software. Given that these systems are integral to managing scheduling, billing, inventory, and patient records, the apparent frustration signals significant gaps in user experience, functionality, or support.

Implications for ECPs
The negative Net Promoter Scores might partly stem from user frustration with learning curves or resistance to switching systems, rather than the actual quality of the software.

Nevertheless, for Optometric Professionals, these results highlight the ongoing struggle to find a reliable, efficient Practice Management System. If the majority of available PMS solutions are receiving negative feedback, it means many practices are either settling for suboptimal systems or constantly searching for better alternatives.

What can ECPs do?

Advocate for change: Provide feedback directly to your PMS providers. The more users voice their concerns, the more likely companies are to implement change.
Leverage training resources: Some dissatisfaction may stem from underutilization. Ensuring staff are well-trained on system features can improve efficiency.
Evaluate alternatives carefully: If your current PMS is hindering practice workflow, assess other options that might better suit your practice’s needs.
Engage with peers: Networking with other ECPs can help identify which systems are performing better in real-world settings.

What This Means for PMS Providers?

For developers, managers, and owners of PMS platforms, these results should be a wake-up call. A negative NPS suggests that many users feel their systems fall short of meeting expectations. To improve satisfaction and customer loyalty, PMS providers should focus on:

User Experience & Interface Improvements: Many PMS platforms may feel outdated, clunky, or difficult to navigate. Investing in modern, intuitive user interfaces can significantly enhance satisfaction.
Customization & Flexibility: Practices vary in their needs, and rigid, one-size-fits-all solutions can frustrate users. Providing more customization options can help users tailor the system to their specific workflows.
Integration & Compatibility: ECPs often rely on multiple software tools. Seamless integration with electronic medical records (EMR), insurance providers, diagnostic equipment, and patient communication tools is critical.
Customer Support & Training: Even the best systems can be frustrating if users don’t receive adequate training or timely support. Improving customer service, offering live training, and enhancing self-help resources can help reduce frustration.
Performance & Reliability: System crashes, slow response times, and glitches lead to lost time and productivity. Providers should invest in system stability, faster load times, and mobile-friendly features to enhance efficiency.
Listening to Users: Gathering continuous feedback from users and addressing their concerns can help PMS providers proactively resolve pain points and develop solutions that truly support ECPs.

The Future of PMS in Eye Care

The overall NPS for Practice Management Systems in Canada signals an industry-wide opportunity for improvement. ECPs need systems that streamline their practice management, not create additional frustration.

PMS providers who take proactive steps to address usability, integration, and customer support could position themselves ahead of the competition —and perhaps even achieve a positive NPS in the future.

As technology continues to evolve, so too should the tools that support modern eye care practices. The question is: which PMS providers will listen and rise to the challenge?

This survey was funded by an unrestricted marketing research grant by OCUCO Canada.

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