In the world of vision diagnostics, kinetic visual field testing is a vital method of assessing visual function, despite a decline in clinical usage. This technique involves moving a light stimulus...

In the world of vision diagnostics, kinetic visual field testing is a vital method of assessing visual function, despite a decline in clinical usage. This technique involves moving a light stimulus...
In the world of eye care, space isn’t just a luxury—these days, it’s gold... Whether you’re running your own show, working as a contracted ECP, or somewhere in between, you want the freedom to...
Pachymeter The handheld, ophthalmic biometer you need to take critical measurements from anywhere your practice takes youWhy Do You Need a Pachymeter? A pachymeter is a probe that measures the...
As reported by The Vision Council research manager, Vlad Gupan, “Hiring continues to be a weak point for eyecare practices, emerging as the biggest challenge in the final quarter of 2023.” In fact, the average turnover in optometric practices was 17% as far back as 2010, and staffing issues have only become more complex.
With most practices indicating they are slightly understaffed or just managing with current staff levels, it’s no wonder that 63% of eye care providers expect their staffing situation to remain the same in 2024, reflecting ongoing concerns.
Unfortunately, the impact of poorly trained technicians is something no practice can afford to ignore. The repercussions extend far beyond the tech struggling with their tasks—poor training can ripple through your entire operation, leading to consequences that may include:
The fact is, with a well-trained tech, you’re going to get more reliable data, smoother testing processes, and patients who feel confident in every aspect of their care. In short, well-trained techs are the backbone of a thriving practice.
So, how can you ensure your techs are as well-prepared as possible? Here are some practical tips to help you develop an effective training program:
One of the smartest ways to make training easy is to look for opportunities to adopt user-friendly technology. We know that most practices work with tools that are difficult to master, so any opportunity to shorten the learning curve with intuitive technology is a worthwhile path to explore.
Tools designed with intuitive interfaces, patient-facing instructions, and simple operation reduce the learning curve for new techs, allowing them to perform at a high level more quickly. This minimizes the risk of errors and enhances overall practice efficiency. However, before you go off and purchase every new shiny device you see, keep in mind that not every piece of user-friendly technology is an upgrade. That’s why it’s so important to find tools that are both easy to use and substantially improve your standard of care.
As Miriam Korik, OD from the Optometry Advisor points out, “Technological updates in the office and exam room may not be proof of an optometrist’s ability to manage ocular surface disease or accurately provide refractive error correction, but streamlined communication, modernized instruments, and applications using virtual reality and artificial intelligence have the potential to enhance patient experience and add an element of credibility to an optometric practice.”
The quintessential user-friendly tool, the VF2000 visual field headset is equipped with a intuitive, VR-based system that simplifies the entire testing process. Its self-guided interface leads patients through the testing procedure, reducing the amount of training time techs need to operate the device efficiently.
And it’s not just doctors saying so — stories about the VF2000 being easy to operate (and train others on) are coming straight from the people who matter: technicians themselves.
Sierra, a tech at Primary Eyecare Center, in San Luis Obispo, CA, shared her experience with the VF2000, saying, “I think it is one of the easiest instruments for us to train someone new or when I just need help with doing testing.”
By adopting such technology, you not only empower your techs but also ensure your practice runs like a well-oiled machine, with improved accuracy, efficiency, and patient satisfaction.
Amanda, from Vision Health Institute, in Orlando, FL, echoed this sentiment: “It’s more comfortable for the patient, it’s very easy to use. It’s one of the easiest things in our whole glaucoma workup.”
Well-trained techs are more than just a nice-to-have — they’re integral to the success of your eye care practice. By investing in effective training programs and user-friendly technology like the VF2000, you’re setting your practice up for long-term success.
Ready to take your practice to the next level? Get in touch to explore how the VF2000 can streamline your operations and boost your team’s confidence and competence!