eyecare professionals Archives - Eye Care Business Canada

From Dr. Google to Your Exam Lane – What Online Search Trends Reveal About Today’s Contact Lens Patients

Buying-Selling A Practice, Practice, Technology

by Dr. Harbir Sian, OD

In an era when patients ask Dr. Google before they call their optometrist, the way people seek vision care information is changing fast.

The Contact Lens Institute’s 2025 Digital Discovery report dives into thousands of real-world searches from across North America including Google queries, TikTok reels, voice-assistant prompts, and AI-generated answers to uncover what contact-lens wearers (and would-be wearers) really want to know.

The results offer valuable lessons for eye-care professionals: how to anticipate patient questions, fill the information gaps that online sources leave behind, and strengthen in-office trust in an AI-powered world.

Price First, Value Second

The study found that 65% of all contact-lens-related Google searches focus on buying—price comparisons, retailers, rebates, and “cheap contact lenses.” That means many patients come to their exam with a pre-set idea of what lenses should cost based on what they’ve seen online.

Clinics can turn that to their advantage. Discuss rebates, insurance coverage, direct shipping, easy exchanges, and personalized service early in the visit and not as an afterthought at checkout. Showing the full value proposition helps move the conversation from “How cheap can I get them?” to “Why should I get them from you?”

Automated reorder reminders and in-office or online purchasing portals also keep patients from drifting toward online retailers when it’s time to restock.

A Removal Problem, Not an Insertion One

One of the most surprising findings: searches for how to remove contact lenses outnumber how to insert by more than 2-to-1. It’s a reminder that removal anxiety, not insertion, could be driving frustration and dropout among new wearers.

Make removal part of every fitting conversation. Printed guides, short explainer videos, and structured follow-ups can dramatically reduce anxiety. Even better, send patients your own trusted video link so they don’t have to scroll through questionable TikToks for help.

Shifting the “Either-Or” Mindset

Search behavior also shows a major misconception: only 6% of comparative searches used the word “and” (as in contacts and glasses), while 94% used “or.” Many consumers still believe they have to choose one or the other.

That’s a missed opportunity. Ask every patient about “life moments” that could benefit from both: vacations, sports, weddings, or even long workdays. Offering in-office trial experiences, where the optometrist inserts and removes the lenses, can help hesitant patients imagine contact lenses as part of their everyday routine, not a replacement for spectacles.

Voice Search and AI: The New Front Door

Up to 20% of all contact-lens searches now happen through voice assistants such as Siri, Alexa, or Google Assistant. Phrases like “eye doctor near me” dominate.

For clinics, that means visibility depends on digital housekeeping: complete your Google Business profile, use location-specific keywords, and include “eye doctor” or “optometrist” on your site pages.

Google’s new AI-driven summaries (via Gemini) often answer a query without users ever scrolling down. Practices that publish credible local content, blogs, service pages, and videos, are more likely to be cited or surfaced by these AI summaries. In other words, digital authority begins with your own website.

Countering Misinformation—Gently

Patients trust AI assistants, but that trust is misplaced more often than not. When the Contact Lens Institute asked major AI platforms where consumers should go for lens information, results ranged from the American Optometric Association to, surprisingly… Forbes.com.

Rather than dismissing what patients read online, invite the discussion:

“That’s interesting—where did you find that information?”

This simple question opens the door to clarify misconceptions and reinforces your role as the most reliable source for personalized guidance.

Meeting Patients Where They Search

The CLI Digital Discovery report offers a clear takeaway: the online behavior of today’s patients can help shape better real-world care. When optometrists view digital channels as extensions of their exam lanes, they can anticipate concerns before they’re voiced, provide trustworthy education, and make every interaction, online or in-office, count.

By embracing proactive education, promoting dual wear, and optimizing for digital discoverability, eye-care professionals can ensure that Dr. Google leads patients right back to where they belong, in your exam chair.

Dr. Harbir Sian, OD

Dr. Harbir Sian, OD, is an optometrist, entrepreneur, and award-winning advocate. Co-owner of multiple clinics in British Columbia, he specializes in myopia management and dry eye care. A TEDx speaker and host of Canada’s most downloaded optometry podcast, he is a trusted Key Opinion Leader and sought-after educator.

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Thinking of Switching EMRs? What ODs Need to Know About Data Portability

Practice, Technology

Part 1.
by Maryam Moharib, BOptom, BHSc, CSPO, CAPM

In today’s optometry practices, the electronic medical record (EMR) is much more than a digital filing cabinet. It is the hub for clinical decision-making, patient history, diagnostic imaging, prescriptions, and even practice management functions such as scheduling, billing, and recalls. However, with the rapid advancement of clinical technology, the EMR system that an optometrist once started with may no longer meet their needs.

Whether driven by the desire for better integration with diagnostic devices, frustration with outdated interfaces, or the need for cloud-based access, many clinics eventually consider switching systems.

Yet the decision to move from one EMR to another is not always straightforward. One of the biggest hurdles is data portability—the ability to securely and effectively transfer patient information, records, and related data from one system into another. Understanding the challenges and responsibilities around data portability is essential for any optometrist planning such a transition.

Why Data Portability Matters

The value of an EMR lies in its data. Beyond basic demographics and clinical notes, optometry practices rely on structured information such as refraction histories, contact lens parameters, intraocular pressure readings, and optical coherence tomography (OCT) images. If this information cannot be migrated intact, a clinic risks losing critical historical data that guides patient care.

From a patient safety standpoint, incomplete or inaccurate migration could result in treatment errors, duplicate testing, or severe gaps in continuity of care. From a business standpoint, a failed migration can be costly, causing downtime, inefficiency, frustration, and patient dissatisfaction. Data portability, then, is not just a technical concern but a clinical and legal responsibility.

Legal and Regulatory Considerations

Legal and Regulatory Requirements Optometrists must take into account Canadian legislation and provincial requirements when it comes to data portability. Each province has laws that govern personal health information (PHI). These laws require that PHI remain confidential, accurate, and secure—even when transferring data between EMR systems.

In addition to PHI data encryption, provinces such as Ontario and Manitoba require certified EMR vendors to include functionality for data migration, ensuring that records can be easily exported in usable formats. These measures are designed to reduce vendor “lock-in” and encourage interoperability.

One of the most common data structures that hinder interoperability is the use of proprietary fields. Proprietary fields are custom data structures unique to a specific EMR system. They define how information is labeled, stored, or formatted, often in ways that don’t follow common standards. Because these fields are not universally recognized, other EMRs may be unable to interpret or import the data correctly during migration. This can lead to incomplete or inaccurate transfers, especially for complex information such as prescriptions or contact lens parameters. Ensuring that proprietary fields are properly mapped or converted into standardized formats is essential to preserve data accuracy when switching systems.

For example: One EMR might store contact lens prescriptions in a single combined field like “OD: -3.25 BC 8.6 DIA 14.0,” while another EMR stores each value—sphere, base curve, and diameter—in separate standardized fields. Because the data is structured differently, the new system may not recognize or correctly import the information unless it’s carefully mapped or reformatted.

Risks and Challenges

Switching EMRs comes with a unique set of risks that extend beyond simple data transfer. Common pitfalls include:

Vendor lock-in and resistance: Some vendors make interoperability and exporting data difficult through unusable or proprietary formats, additional charges, delays, or restrictive policies.
Data loss and corruption: Images or attachments might not map correctly, fields may get misaligned, metadata (like dates or authorship) may be lost or altered.
Cost overruns and schedule delays: Hidden conversion challenges can quickly exceed expected timelines and budgets.
Interoperability shortcomings: Even after migration, if the new system doesn’t integrate well with external labs, imaging devices, or pharmacies, the practice may still face data-sharing issues.

Each of these challenges emphasizes why data portability is not just an IT issue—it is also a clinical and operational issue.

The Takeaway

Data portability affects every part of continuity of patient care, practice efficiency, and legal compliance. Understanding the foundational issues—such as proprietary data structures, provincial PHI laws, and interoperability standards—is the first step in avoiding serious disruptions.

Switching EMRs is more than a technology upgrade—it’s a transformation of how a clinic manages patient information. By approaching migration with deliberate planning, vendor collaboration, and thorough validation, optometrists can protect the integrity of their data while gaining the advantages of modernized technological data systems.

A successful EMR migration ensures that the records that have been built over years remain intact, accessible, and clinically meaningful. With the right preparation, the migration can enhance—not interrupt—a practice’s ability to deliver excellent patient care.

In Part 2, the next article will explore the practical side of EMR migration: how to prepare the data, coordinate between vendors, and protect the clinic from data loss or workflow breakdowns during the transition.

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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Professionalism at the Heart of IRIS

sponsor, Sponsored Posts

Iris sponsored post image. Woman selecting a frame.

At IRIS, professionalism is a promise.
Every member of our team—whether optometrist, optician, or advisor—shares a deep commitment to quality and excellence. We believe that our patients’ trust is earned through the passion we bring to our work, along with honesty and respect.

This is why every visit to IRIS is guided by meticulous attention to detail, genuine listening, and a sincere desire to provide the experience of better vision. Professionalism also means recognizing that every pair of eyes is unique. We don’t simply sell eyewear—we support people.

Our approach is rooted in a thorough understanding of each client’s visual needs, lifestyle, and aesthetic expectations. Every recommendation is thoughtful, personalized, and supported by the expertise of passionate professionals.

Quality as a Signature

At IRIS, the quality of our care and service leaves nothing to chance. Our professionals practice according to the highest industry standards and provide rigorous follow-up at every stage of the visual journey.

From comprehensive eye exams to precise frame adjustments, every action is performed with care. We use advanced diagnostic instruments to ensure the early detection of visual and ocular conditions. Our mission is simple: to offer high-quality products and services in the field of eye care.

Every lens, every frame, and every treatment is selected based on strict criteria of performance, durability, and comfort. Because every patient’s eyes deserve the very best, IRIS partners with leading manufacturers and develops exclusive technologies that redefine vision standards in Canada.

Apogée Lenses: Precision Reinvented

A product of IRIS expertise and innovation, Apogée lenses represent the highest standard in customized vision.

They are designed using advanced technologies that enhance clarity, precision, and sharpness in all conditions. Each Apogée lens is tailored to the unique physiology, visual habits, and environment of every client.

Thanks to an ultra-precise manufacturing process, Apogée lenses deliver a smooth, natural visual experience. They reduce optical aberrations, improve contrast, and provide comfortable vision from morning to night.

It’s the perfect solution for those seeking vision without compromise. Apogée lenses are also backed by the IRIS unconditional guarantee—a testament to our complete confidence in their performance and durability. Choosing Apogée means choosing optimal optical quality and personalized comfort.

Personalized Service

At IRIS, every client is welcomed as a guest. Our service is built on human connection above all else. We take the time to learn about their story, their activities, and their specific visual needs.

Our teams don’t simply offer a product—they create an experience.
From booking an appointment to receiving their new glasses, every step is designed to make their visit to IRIS pleasant and reassuring.

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The A+ Method for Connecting with Kids in Clinic

Human Resources

When a child walks into your optometry clinic, they’re not just bringing their eyes, they’re bringing their emotions, too.

Whether it’s nervousness about the eye exam, confusion about blurry vision, or even fear of getting glasses, kids are often navigating more than they can express. That’s why the three ‘A’s of Self-Awareness—Assess, Acknowledge, Adjust— are so powerful in pediatric eye care.

By using these steps intentionally, we help young patients better understand their emotions and feel supported through a positive, trust-building experience.

Assess – Helping the Child Notice What They’re Feeling

Kids might not walk in saying, “I’m anxious about this exam,” but their bodies and behavior will often speak for them, fidgeting, clinging to a parent, or becoming uncharacteristically quiet.

As professionals, we can guide a child to assess their emotional state by asking simple, supportive questions:

“How are you feeling about today’s visit?”

“Have you been to an eye doctor before?”

“Anything you’re curious or unsure about?”

This invites them to check in with themselves, even if they don’t have all the words. Visual aids like emotion faces or a feelings chart can make this even easier, especially for younger children.

Example: A child says, “I feel a little weird about the machine that puffs air.”
You’ve just opened a door to self-awareness—and trust.

Acknowledge – Validating Their Emotions Without Dismissing Them

Once a child expresses how they feel, the next step is helping them acknowledge it as valid.

This doesn’t mean fixing it or brushing past it with “You’ll be fine” it means naming it, accepting it, and letting them know it’s okay.

Try responses like:

“A lot of kids feel unsure about that part; it can be a bit surprising.”

“It makes sense you feel nervous, new things can feel a little strange at first.”

When we acknowledge a child’s emotions, they feel understood instead of rushed. This helps them settle, feel safer, and become more receptive to what’s next.

Example: A child who’s hesitant to try on glasses says, “I don’t want to look weird.”
You respond, “That makes total sense. Sometimes changes take a bit to get used to, but you might be surprised how cool you look.”

Adjust – Guiding a New Response with Confidence and Support

Now comes the moment to help the child adjust, not by forcing them to “get over it,” but by gently guiding them toward a new emotional response or mindset.

This could look like:

Giving them agency “Would you like to try this frame or this one first?”

Reframing the situation “These lenses will help everything feel easier at school.”

Practicing a calming strategy together before a test, like deep breath before the air puff.

Example: A child who’s still unsure about getting glasses is offered a mirror and frame options that match their favorite colour.
You say, “Let’s find a pair that feels just right for you. Something that shows off who you are.”

They feel seen. They feel empowered. That’s emotional intelligence in action.

Why It Matters in Eye Care

When we apply Assess, Acknowledge, and Adjust with our young patients, we’re not just making the appointment smoother, we’re building:

Confidence in unfamiliar situations

Positive associations with health care

A sense of agency in their choices

Emotional trust in us as professionals

And that trust doesn’t just make today easier. It impacts how they approach their health, their self-esteem, and even their learning for years to come.

Let’s use the ‘A’s of self-awareness to make every visit one where they feel not only cared for—but understood.

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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The Art of Mentorship

Independent SightLines

Benjamin Franklin once said, “Tell me and I forget, teach me and I remember, involve me and I learn.” Centuries later, Winston Churchill admitted, “I am always ready to learn but I do not always like being taught.” These perspectives capture the delicate balance of effective mentorship: the need to actively engage learners while respecting that not everyone learns the same way or at the same pace.

After 30 years in practice, I’ve shifted much of my energy toward mentoring the next generation of eyecare professionals. Here are some insights I’ve gathered along the way.

Learning Needs to be an Institutional Core Concept

A learning organization is always looking to improve. Learning must be part of your core values, which means embracing change and maintaining genuine excitement about delivering better patient care. It’s crucial to recognize that we all can learn from each other, regardless of position in the organization or educational background. The optical assistant may have insights the optometrist needs to hear, and vice versa.

When the Student is Ready, the Teacher Will Appear

This was one of my father’s favourite sayings. As a teacher himself, I wasn’t completely convinced his mantra made sense at the time. Over the years, though, I’ve come to appreciate its wisdom: not everyone is immediately ready to learn new things, nor will they always accept your expertise right away. Don’t take it personally. Continue to be available, build trust, and demonstrate your commitment to their growth. The student will come around when they’re ready.

Observation is often an underrated form of learning. Watching experienced team members navigate challenging patient interactions and exemplify best practices can be invaluable preparation before someone attempts these skills solo in real time.

Hire on Personality, Then Train the Skills

On my 40th birthday, my buddies took me golfing. A young woman was selling drinks on the course, and she was so personable that I recommended she switch gears and sell glasses instead.

The next day, she submitted her resume. She’s now been with our practice for 15 years and holds a leadership role championing our dry eye business.

The lesson? Watch for great personalities, then train the skills. It’s remarkable what motivated team members can achieve with proper training and mentoring. There’s deep satisfaction in developing talent internally, and it’s often more cost-effective too.

Much like a sports team that drafts and develops superstars rather than paying premium prices in free agency, having a portion of your team “home grown” helps manage staffing costs. While we should certainly recruit skilled talent from outside when needed, developing leaders through your internal ranks makes the business more sustainable and creates a culture of loyalty and growth.

The Teacher Becomes the Student

One of the great rewards of mentoring someone new to optometry or opticianry is that the teacher can learn too. Perhaps there’s a new methodology, a fresh clinical approach, or, heaven forbid, another acronym to master. Recently, a new graduate introduced me to enhanced imaging techniques for anterior segment OCT that have genuinely improved my diagnostic confidence.

We can always learn from each other. This exchange keeps practice fresh for veterans while reinforcing the recent education of newer team members. It’s a virtuous cycle when egos are left at the door.

Measurement and Auditing

It’s important to track metrics such as multiple pair sales, capture rates, and revenue per patient. This allows for benchmarking and helps identify training gaps. For instance, if capture rates are low, we can provide targeted coaching on frame selection techniques or patient communication strategies.

Continuous learning also means conducting periodic audits to assess comprehensive care delivery and implementation of best practices. Everyone needs to be open to assessment and improvement, including the practice owner and senior doctors.

When Egos Get in the Way

It takes genuine humility to learn from someone new rather than relying solely on years of experience. Rooted in fear of becoming obsolete or being viewed as outdated, some of us move forward in defensive ways that actually squelch learning and innovation.

Vulnerability is key here. Don’t guard against a bruised ego. Instead, normalize learning from mistakes and celebrate advancements in the collective knowledge of the team.

Personally, I’m excited about the next generation of doctors who graduate with an impressive amount of knowledge and skill. When I lecture, I encourage new graduates to find a more experienced mentor who will keep it real and support their growth. Then I tell them: get after it!

Mentorship isn’t a one-way street where knowledge flows from senior to junior. It’s a dynamic exchange that enriches everyone involved, strengthens your practice, and ultimately leads to better patient care. The art lies in creating an environment where both teaching and learning can flourish, where Franklin’s wisdom about involvement meets Churchill’s preference for discovery over instruction.

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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Buying or Selling: What You Need to Know

Buying-Selling A Practice, Practice

What business owners and purchasers really want to know is, “What do I need to know?” I’ve always believed in the adage, “You don’t know what you don’t know.” A life decision this big requires you to consider things you may not have thought about before.

Sellers

Top of mind questions that should be discussed include:

Am I getting enough for what I have built?

In my experience, sellers often overestimate or underestimate value based on emotion rather than market reality.

There’s no doubt the value of your business matters. But like in real estate, the value is ultimately what someone else is willing to pay. We can apply all sorts of formulas and valuation methods, but unless a buyer supports that number, it doesn’t matter much.

Realize that price is only one part of the equation. Do you have a desire to leave your practice independent? Would you prefer that your associates carry on your legacy?

Have you considered the impact of taxation? Qualifying for the Lifetime Capital Gains Exemption can save you up to $312,000. Structuring a sale correctly can have a significant impact on your take home profit.

Are there any holdbacks on the offer? Clauses that you are concerned about?

How will this decision affect my family?

When I sold my practice, I underestimated how much the change would affect my family.

While many people sell when they’re ready to retire, I’m increasingly hearing from owners who want to exit earlier to gain more time flexibility. Understanding how your household income will change—and ensuring all decision-makers in your home are on board—is essential.

How will this decision affect my financial picture and future cash flow?

You’ve spent your life saving. Saving for the next business investment. Saving for your next car. Saving for your future.

Many small business owners have poured the majority of their free cash flow into their businesses with the understanding that selling the business would eventually provide the income they’ll need in retirement. I found that mapping out my post-sale cash flow gave me clarity on what the sale price could realistically support – and helped me avoid inflation surprises.

Having a clear understanding of all your assets and how they will create your future cash flow is critical to developing a comfort around your decision to sell and the post-tax price you actually need to meet your desired next chapter spending.

Am I able to shift gears mentally?

First off, you are still a doctor. Despite the fact that selling your practice doesn’t negate your education, it will still be an adjustment.

With any life transition, it’s best to have something that you are looking forward to. Start with a celebration and have an idea of how you will fill your time. You still have great value and wisdom – and now you have time to enjoy and contribute to your community in a different way.

Buyers

There is so much excitement (and anxiety) around buying a practice. It’s a big purchase and the decision shouldn’t be taken lightly. Ensure you have considered the following:

What is a reasonable price for the practice I’m looking to purchase?

There are many aspects of a practice that should be considered prior to purchase including how clean the financial statements are and what leases or operating loans you may be taking over.

Will there be an instant reduction in revenue with the departure of the previous owner? How do you envision managing this?

Who is your landlord and what terms are built into the lease? If the lease is set to expire soon, will you be forced to find a new space and incur significant leasehold improvement expenses? Are you expected to purchase the building with the business?

How am I going to finance the purchase?

There are numerous financing options available, from vendor buy back to full lender financing. What terms are being offered? How flexible is the lender on amortization periods?

Are you able to purchase the commercial property without the standard 20% downpayment?

On top of the initial purchase cost, you will also want to consider how you will create the free cash flow needed to make your payments on time. Do you know where you have the most control over your bottom line? Are there areas of the practice where you can create instant added value?

What impact will this purchase have on my lifestyle?

Despite the reality that most optometrists can live on less income than they are currently earning, it’s rare that someone is actually willing to reduce their lifestyle.

Ensure you have crunched the numbers to review the cushion you have after you make your financing payments. A purchase can quickly become a stress point if you’re unable to meet your debt obligations. Planning ahead gives you the confidence to move forward without sacrificing your lifestyle.

And let’s not get started on the vast number of considerations to explore if you are creating or joining a multi-owner practice!

Conclusion

There are so many questions and options to explore, many times under a clock that seems to be ticking too fast. Delaying a transaction a few weeks or months won’t likely make a big difference in your life, but taking the time to review both the financial and emotional implications ahead of time can save you hours of anxiety and stress.

Have questions? Not sure what questions you should be asking? I’ve been through this journey and know how overwhelming it can feel. Let’s talk. You can reach me at roxanne@c3wealthadvisors.ca or 780-261-3098 to book a conversation.

Roxanne Arnal is a Certified Financial Planner®, Chartered Life Underwriter®, Certified Health Insurance Specialist, former Optometrist, Professional Corporation President, and practice owner. She is dedicated to empowering individuals and their wealth by helping them make smart financial decisions that bring more joy to their lives.

This article is for information purposes only and is not a replacement for personalized financial planning. 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.

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The Financial Seasons of an Optometric Practice: Start-Up, Growth, Maturity & Succession

Finance|Wealth

Every optometric practice evolves through distinct financial seasons, each with its own priorities, challenges and opportunities.

Start Up: Planting the Seeds

Location, location, location! Always start with good fertile soil. Focus your launch phase on building infrastructure, attracting patients and establishing your brand.

Because your revenue will likely be low and unpredictable, you need to be mindful of your cash flow and debt management. Ensure that you have a sufficient line of credit and payment terms for equipment, inventory and leaseholds. Don’t forget about insurance – especially business office expense disability coverage – you’ve committed a lot to this endeavour.

Take this time to build out your ideal operational systems. Focus on developing deep client relationships, a referral network and training of ideal staff.

Tip: Negotiate favorable vendor terms. Review the cash flow impact of leasing vs borrowing. Ensure you have adequate insurance coverage.

Growth: Plant Development

As you gain traction and patient volumes increase be sure to continue to fertilize your growth.

Reinvest into technology, staff and continual marketing. Consider adding specialty services that align with your patient base. Review your operational systems for efficiency and ensure you have sufficient support staff.

Great staff are worth keeping, consider adding benefit and retirement savings programs.

You always have to be thinking ahead to ensure the office is ready for additional patient needs.

Tip: Strategic reinvestment leads to continued growth.

Mature: Harvesting

The true beauty of a mature practice is that it creates a regular and growing income stream. Don’t take patient loyalty for granted. All relationships need continual care and appreciation.

Your size may permit better vendor pricing and terms. Consider purchasing your own clinic property with excess revenue. Look to other investment options, like corporate owned life insurance, to create a tax free savings opportunity.

Ensure that you understand your financial statements and keep an eye on your performance.

Tip: Keep an eye on your profit margin. If you aren’t continually profitable, you can’t continue to service your patients at the level you desire.

Succession: The Next Harvest

Transitioning ownership can be challenging. Planning ahead can ease the emotional strain and ensure that you are maximizing your financial success. This is your opportunity to preserve legacy and ensure continuity for all the people you have cared for these many years.

If you’re looking to step into your transition through partnership, a comprehensive joint venture agreement that addresses various triggering events and considers the use of insurance for emergency buy/sell is critical. Every good business marriage needs a signed contract. Be sure to download our Buy-Sell Agreement Checklist [https://c3wealthadvisors.ca/buy-sell-agreement-checklist/].

Understand your practice value, update your clinic appearance and equipment, ensure that you have reviewed tax planning opportunities.

Tip: You don’t know what you don’t know. Now is the time to reap the benefits of your years of sacrifice and success – let other’s help you to ensure that you have considered the impact of your various options.

Conclusion

Throughout your business ownership journey you will have many questions and opportunities to harness knowledge from those who have gone before you. Engage advisors and mentors to help guide you along the way. Perform financial audits and review your overall costs to ensure practice profitability – only through your success can you provide a level a care that your patients deserve.

Have questions? Don’t know what questions you should have? Roxanne has lived through all the seasons in her optometric and financial planning careers. Reach out via email at roxanne@c3wealthadvisors.ca or call 780-261-3098 to book a conversation.

Roxanne Arnal is a Certified Financial Planner®, Chartered Life Underwriter®, former Optometrist, Professional Corporation President, and practice owner. She is dedicated to empowering individuals and their wealth by helping them make smart financial decisions that bring more joy to their lives.

This article is for information purposes only and is not a replacement for personalized financial planning. Errors and Omissions exempt.

ROXANNE ARNAL,

Optometrist and Certified Financial Planner

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A New View of Retirement Planning

Planning

Retirement is no longer viewed as a “tired” chapter, but rather as a reimagined lifestyle choice—one that offers enhanced time and financial flexibility. Today’s retirees are shifting the lens: some are staying in the workforce longer, trading rigid schedules for greater autonomy, while others are stepping away from past careers to pursue new purpose-driven paths. It’s not just about stepping back—it’s about seeing forward, with clarity and intention.

What are you retiring to?

As with all life transitions, it’s key to have something fun and exciting to look forward to as you change up your day to day life. Take some time to really define what it is you are retiring to.

How are you going to make this happen?

A well-rounded retirement strategy should do more than cover the basics—it should reflect the life you’ve built and the one you still want to live. By integrating your many different investment accounts, personal and corporate, your plan should support everyday comfort while bringing your future into sharper focus, whether that’s exploring new destinations or simply enjoying more freedom at home.

The New Paycheque

Day to day expenses like groceries, utilities and personal care are typically funded by a regular source of recurring income. These may include CPP, OAS, a pension, or your RRSPs for example.

The Fun Stuff

Travel, home upgrades and even a second property are some of the well-earned rewards after years of building your career. If your savings includes a mix of TFSA, non-registered accounts and corporate investing, now is the time to review your withdrawal strategy so you can actually enjoy this nest egg.

The Unexpected

Everything is great until the unexpected happens. Health is a primary reason many retirement plans get off track. Have you built in contingencies to cover unexpected expenses? Can you comfortably pivot your financial enjoyment to meet your new needs?

The “Not-So-Fun” Stuff

And then we have taxes! One of only two certainties of life in Canada. You’ve worked hard to limit taxation during your working years, so it’s key your withdrawal plan considers how you will manage your taxes moving forward. Don’t let taxes eat up 50% of your savings!

The Other Certainty

Whether you want to address it or not, death is a certainty of life. Though we may not know the day nor the hour, it will come for all of us. Part of a holistic retirement plan is reviewing your estate planning. Does your will still reflect your wishes? Does the beneficiary status of your investments and life insurance policies line up or should they be changed in light of final taxation, charitable wishes, and perhaps skipping a generation to optimize your planning.

The Financial Needs

Avoid the worry created by news and market fluctuations by ensuring your investments are set up to create a smooth withdrawal for your ongoing needs and wants. Understanding how asset allocation plays an increasingly critical role during your withdrawal phase is key to avoiding sequence of return risk.

Conclusion

Now is the time to create a future that balances stability with possibility. Shifting from a saving focus to a spending focus can be difficult, but with a clear plan, you can set a withdrawal strategy that helps to manage market risk, provides flexibility, controls taxation and leaves you with a legacy to be proud of.

Interested in personalized retirement guidance to balance all your financial needs and wants? Reach out to Roxanne via email at roxanne@c3wealthadvisors.ca or call 780-261-3098 to book a conversation.

This article is for information purposes only and is not a replacement for personalized financial planning. Errors and Omissions exempt.

ROXANNE ARNAL,

Optometrist and Certified Financial Planner

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Innovation at IRIS: A Vision Focused on the Future

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Since its creation, IRIS has been committed to providing high-quality products and services in the field of vision care. Today, this mission has taken on a new dimension thanks to technological innovation. Whether through the integration of artificial intelligence, the use of precision tools such as electronic medical records, or the exclusive development of cutting-edge ophthalmic lenses such as Apogée lenses, IRIS is transforming the visual experience for its patients.

Artificial Intelligence: Seeing Problems Before They Arise

In the field of visual health, prevention is as important as treatment. That’s why IRIS is focusing on integrating artificial intelligence (AI) into its clinical practices.

Thanks to advanced imaging technologies combined with AI algorithms, optometrists at IRIS can detect eye abnormalities early on, sometimes even before the patient experiences any symptoms. This allows for faster intervention, more rigorous follow-up, and prevents certain conditions from worsening.

For example, subtle signs of diseases such as age-related macular degeneration (AMD), diabetic retinopathy, or glaucoma can be detected very early on thanks to AI. By integrating these tools into eye exams, IRIS offers its patients unparalleled peace of mind and once again demonstrates its commitment to optimal eye health.

The Electronic Medical Record: A Precision Tool at the Service of the Patient

Another pillar of innovation at IRIS is the electronic medical record (EMR). In addition to reducing paper use and increasing the efficiency of communications between professionals, the EMR allows for more rigorous and personalized monitoring of each patient’s visual health.

This centralized system allows optometrists, opticians, and ophthalmologists in the IRIS network to consult the patient’s complete visual history, exam results, retinal imaging, previous prescriptions, and much more.

The result: more informed clinical decisions, better coordination of care, and a simplified experience for the patient.

Apogée Lenses: Exclusive Technology for Customized Vision

One of the most significant innovations developed at IRIS is the Apogée lens, a new-generation progressive lens designed exclusively for presbyopes seeking optimal visual performance.

Unlike standard progressive lenses, Apogée adapts to each user in a completely unique way. Thanks to advanced measurement technologies and a 100% ergonomic design, each lens is custom-made according to the patient’s morphology, reading habits, visual needs, and even lifestyle.

The result? Perfectly adapted visual fields, maximum visual quality, and unparalleled comfort in all areas of vision, whether near, far, or intermediate.

This high-tech lens naturally attracts customers who appreciate precision, seek advanced products, and value the reliability of a brand like IRIS. It also represents a new way of experiencing eyewear shopping: more collaborative, more personalized, and more satisfying.

A Customer Experience Enriched by Technology

Innovation at IRIS is not limited to clinical tools or products. It is also reflected in the overall customer experience.

But what really sets the IRIS approach apart is the human dimension of this innovation. Patients are invited to collaborate in the creation of their progressive lenses. They gain a better understanding of the choices available to them, participate in the development of the solution, and leave with a product that truly meets their expectations.

Innovating for Better Vision… and a Better Life

At IRIS, innovation is much more than just a word. It is a philosophy that guides every decision and every improvement.

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Your Voice Matters: Participate in Our Survey on Practice Management Systems!

Why Participate?

In addition to making your voice heard, the first 100 qualified respondents will receive a $10 e-gift card as a thank-you for your time and valuable input. (Limitations apply.)

Your responses will be used to better understand the needs of optometric practices across Canada, helping us uncover trends, challenges, and opportunities in practice management software.

How to Get Involved

Participating is simple! Click the link below to access the survey and complete it on your own time. Remember, it takes less than 5 minutes to make an impact and claim your reward if you’re among the first 100 qualifying respondents.

Start the Survey Now!

Your Feedback Drives Innovation

By sharing your experiences, you’re contributing to a broader conversation about the tools and technologies that support optometric practices. Your insights will not only help inform others in the industry but also guide future developments in practice management solutions.

Don’t miss this opportunity to shape the future of your field and earn a small token of appreciation in return.

Thank you for your participation and dedication to improving Canadian Optometry!

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Price First, Value Second

A Removal Problem, Not an Insertion One

Shifting the “Either-Or” Mindset

Voice Search and AI: The New Front Door

Countering Misinformation—Gently

Meeting Patients Where They Search

Dr. Harbir Sian, OD

Part 1. by Maryam Moharib, BOptom, BHSc, CSPO, CAPM

Why Data Portability Matters

Legal and Regulatory Considerations

Risks and Challenges

The Takeaway

Maryam Moharib, BOptom, BHSc, CSPO, CAPM

Quality as a Signature

Apogée Lenses: Precision Reinvented

Personalized Service

Why It Matters in Eye Care

Jade Bodzasy

Learning Needs to be an Institutional Core Concept

When the Student is Ready, the Teacher Will Appear

Hire on Personality, Then Train the Skills

The Teacher Becomes the Student

Measurement and Auditing

When Egos Get in the Way

DR. TREVOR MIRANDA

Sellers

Buyers

Conclusion

ROXANNE ARNAL,

Start Up: Planting the Seeds

Growth: Plant Development

Mature: Harvesting

Succession: The Next Harvest

Conclusion

ROXANNE ARNAL,

What are you retiring to?

How are you going to make this happen?

The New Paycheque

The Fun Stuff

The Unexpected

The “Not-So-Fun” Stuff

The Other Certainty

The Financial Needs

Conclusion

ROXANNE ARNAL,

Artificial Intelligence: Seeing Problems Before They Arise

The Electronic Medical Record: A Precision Tool at the Service of the Patient

Apogée Lenses: Exclusive Technology for Customized Vision

A Customer Experience Enriched by Technology

Innovating for Better Vision… and a Better Life

Why Participate?

How to Get Involved

Your Feedback Drives Innovation

Thank you for your participation and dedication to improving Canadian Optometry!

Part 1.
by Maryam Moharib, BOptom, BHSc, CSPO, CAPM