Redesigning your optical dispensary can boost its profitability

Of the diverse issues facing ophthalmology practices, one of the most hotly debated is launching and maintaining a profitable optical dispensary. What savvy ophthalmologists realize is that having a dispensary doesn't automatically improve patient satisfaction or the practice's bottom line. A successful optical dispensary takes management support and professional know-how to guide it.

In the quest to find a niche for your optical, simple, effective solutions often are overlooked. Changing the appearance of the optical dispensary is one such obvious option. A facelift can make a difference in the bottom line. In fact, this principle holds true in a variety of situations.

For example, last month I sold my home 10 days after placing it on the market for 5% above the appraised market value.

"Why so fast?" you may ask.

Style and substance

Is your optical simply a patient convenience, or is it a part of your business in which you take great pride?

When I consult with a practice, my mental checklist covers housekeeping items as well as decorative touches.

Next, look at its outside entrance. Make sure the dispensary entrance area is immaculate and uncluttered. Is it sterile and abandoned-looking or warm and inviting? Is a direct phone number printed on the door, or is the door covered with a hodgepodge of crooked vendor decals? Use bright-colored flowers in handsome planters to decorate in spring and summer.