optometrists Archives - Eye Care Business Canada

Professionalism at the Heart of IRIS

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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ACUVUE® NEWS—A daily disposable contact lens for the presbyopic astigmat

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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2025 Year End Tax Planning Tips

Practice

As 2025 winds down, it’s the perfect time to review your financial situation and make strategic moves that could benefit your 2025 tax return and set you up for a strong start in 2026. Here are some key considerations to keep in mind:

Capital Gains & Losses

While the proposed changes to capital gains inclusion rates have been shelved indefinitely*, it’s still wise to review your non-registered investments, both personally and corporately. If you anticipate needing income in 2026, consider triggering gains or losses now to optimize your marginal tax rate both for this year and the next.

Open an FHSA, Even If You’re Not Ready to Contribute

Looking to start saving for your first home? Opening a First Home Savings Account (FHSA) in 2025, even without contributing, provides you with the current year contribution limit of $8,000, allowing you to pump up your savings to $16,000 of contribution room in 2026.

Home Buyers’ Plan RRSP Withdrawals

Planning to use your RRSP for a first-time home purchase? Make your eligible withdrawal before December 31, 2025 to benefit from the enhanced temporary* repayment relief period. Withdrawals made between January 1, 2022, and December 31, 2025, enjoy an extra three-year grace period before repayments begin.

Turning 71 This Year? Time to Convert Your RRSP

If you turned 71 in 2025, you must convert your RRSP to a RRIF by year-end. Mandatory minimum withdrawals will begin next year.

TFSA Withdrawal Timing Matters

Thinking of withdrawing from your TFSA early in 2026? Remember, any amount you withdraw is added back to your contribution room January 1 of the following calendar year. If you plan to recontribute, consider withdrawing before December 31 to avoid potential overcontribution penalties in 2026.

RESP Withdrawals for Post-Secondary Students

If your child started post-secondary studies this year, you can make a second RESP withdrawal in 2025 provided the first withdrawal was at least 13 weeks prior. This can help manage your student’s taxable income from withdrawals of grants and growth. Also, consider making a withdrawal before year-end rather than in 2026 if your student is finishing their studies in Winter 2026 so as to capture the taxation in 2025 rather than when they will likely earn more taxable income in their year of graduation.

Maximize RDSP Contributions

If you or your child has a Registered Disability Savings Plan (RDSP), make your annual contribution before year-end to take full advantage of the Canada Disability Savings Grants and Bonds.

Be Tax Savvy with your Charitable Giving

To claim a donation tax credit on your 2025 return, donations must be made by December 31. For larger gifts, consider donating non-registered marketable securities that have grown in value so you can also eliminate your tax burden from the capital gain.

Prescribed Rate Loans: Don’t Miss the Deadline

If you’re using a prescribed rate loan for family income splitting, ensure the interest payment is made and received within the first 30 days of 2026. This keeps the strategy compliant and effective.

Need Help Navigating Your Year-End Planning?
We’re here to help you make informed decisions that align with your financial goals. Reach out to us with any questions or to schedule a personalized review. at roxanne@c3wealthadvisors.ca or 780-261-3098.

*note: this article was written prior to the November 4, 2025 Federal Budget release.

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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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.

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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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

sponsor, Sponsored Posts

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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Freedom, Growth, and Impact: Why More Optometrists Are Choosing Independence

Reclaiming Control: Why Corporate Models Fall Short

The former began his career within the corporate model. And while these settings provided structure, they also imposed rigid policies that distanced the Dr. Feltis from key decisions. He recalls, “There was a very noticeable difference with respect to freedom of choice that was felt by the doctors and staff. This affected efficiency, service, product quality and, most importantly, staff morale due to chronic frustrations.”

Dr. Joe Hoja, meanwhile, took a different route. Independent from the start, he’s experienced the rewards and the challenges of forging his own path from day one. For Hoja, it’s the sense of ownership and direct impact on patient care makes it all worthwhile. “I prefer to bet on myself,” he says.

Building Leadership—and Legacy—Through Independence

Raised on a grain farm, Dr. Feltis likens private practice to running a small business: “The harder and smarter you work, the more successful you can be. You get all the responsibilities and freedom of being in charge, and you can have a significant impact on how your business grows.”

For Dr. Hoja, leadership has always been central. “Leaders not only grow businesses, but they also grow people,” he says. “It has been my honour to foster growth in so many outstanding human beings. The human element is an underestimated benefit of growing your own practice.”

A Supportive and Collaborative Culture That Puts Patients First

Independence, they both emphasize, goes beyond ownership. It’s about creating a supportive and collaborative culture where patient relationships thrive. In corporate environments, efficiency and volume often overshadow the patient experience. In independent practices, the focus shifts back to connection—and innovation.

Dr. Feltis’s team took all staff and doctors to Disney World to experience what it feels like to receive “life-changing” service firsthand. “It’s hard to create those experiences if you haven’t experienced them yourself,” he says. “We have countless stories of our staff or doctors doing something for a patient that’s completely unrelated to optometry—just to leave an impact.”

Accelerating Clinical Innovation with Agility

Clinical innovation moves faster, too. Dr. Hoja cites his clinic’s focus on early diagnosis and advanced treatment for age-related macular degeneration. “Being an independent practice owner, I alone can make purchasing decisions,” he says. “We now have unique technology and treatment protocols giving patients the absolute best AMD outcomes.”

Investing in People, Building for the Future

Financially, independence brings significant long-term rewards. Growing from two to seven clinics, Dr. Feltis highlights the ability to build equity, purchase real estate, and reinvest in staff. “We’ve built a lot of equity in the business and purchased some of our buildings,” he says. “We can also compensate our staff very well, which has a significant impact on our culture and clinic atmosphere.” It’s this kind of reinvestment that builds loyalty while supporting long-term operational success and sustainable growth.

Dr. Hoja views it in even broader terms, “Growing a successful independent business is the greatest game ever played.”

Partnering for Success: The Power of Community

Still, independence does not mean isolation. Both doctors credit OSI Group as a crucial ally, offering business coaching, access to the Optosys EMR system, preferred supplier agreements, and a network of like-minded professionals. “Independence is somewhat of a misnomer. You don’t have to be alone,” Dr. Hoja says. “The OSI Group can be your partner in success. They do not have a hidden corporate agenda. Your success leads to theirs.”

Shaping the Future of Independent Optometry

Today, with the right support, independent practice offers optometrists a chance to lead, innovate, and optimize business operations while shaping the future of care on their own terms.

To learn more, visit www.opto.com or contact OSI Group at info@opto.com.

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Does Made in Canada Matter to You?

Practice, Products | Services | Industry News

Share your insights in our Optical Industry Survey for a chance to win a $25 e-gift card.

Canadian consumers are increasingly prioritizing buying Canadian, driven by economic and political factors, including the potential for trade tariffs on Canadian exports.

But how does this trend impact eye care professionals and their purchasing decisions for ophthalmic lenses, eyewear frames, and finished jobs from optical labs?

EyeCare Business Canada wants to hear from Optometrists, Opticians, and other eye care professionals about their awareness of where their products come from and whether country of origin plays a role in their choices.

This quick 3 minute survey explores:

✅ Awareness—Do you know where your lenses and frames are manufactured?
✅ Buying Behavior—Would Canadian sourcing influence your decisions?
✅ Canadian Value Add—Do you consider products designed or finished in Canada as “Canadian”?
✅ Consumer Trends—Are your patients asking about country of origin?

Your insights will help shape the conversation around Canadian-made optical products.

📢 Take the survey now!

Your responses are completely anonymous, and as a thank you, participants can opt-in to receive a summary of the results as well as a chance at the $25 gift card.

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