Fitting out the Practice — an Optometrists’ Equipment Guide

Optometrists will find their practice calls for quite a bit more than their veteran experience — for what they require preeminently is likely to be specialized instruments to help them produce answers as rapidly and efficiently as they possibly can. Let us use as examples three major pieces of equipment, focusing on measurement, patient comfort, and storage, and key points to look for in ordering them: whether they’re used, remanufactured, new or refurbished. Intraocular pressure can be measured by tonometers which are produced in a number of different styles such as applanation, non-contact, digital, handheld disposable, and pocket models. In alignment with your preference you may use only one style or employ a selection of different models. Check that the tonometers you choose to use are of the highest quality. Diagnosis becomes so much smoother if you have both ease of use and accuracy with this class of ophthalmic instruments at your fingertips. Nothing is more frustrating than difficulties trying to position the patient at the best angle for a proper diaregnosis, and with each patient being different, this is not easy. This means, choosing the best exam stools is as much about being comfortable as about utility. Look for fully adjustable exam chairs which can raise and lower even the smallest patient to the ideal height. The patient’s examination should be made in comfort, with the examination chairs you opted for giving her support. This is more important for longer visits. Your opthalmology instruments must assist your practice, rather than create a struggle. A valuable part of your practice is a treatment cabinet. Treatment cabinets that make the most efficient and convenient storage available for purchase typically feature secure locks, a drawer for those tricky-to-store supplies, leveling glides to counter uncertain floors and flexible shelving. In addition, make sure to purchase a cabinet in a size that will actually fit into your practice comfortably. Your ability to do your job will be determined partly by the instruments you utilize, including your choice of examination chair, treatment cabinet and tonometer. Thus, commence your ordering of instruments only once you’ve precisely determined what you really need. Awkward instruments will only hamper you, whereas the easier to use and the more useful your tools, the better you should do. The improvements this is sure to manifest is really astounding!

As a result, the decisions you make in terms of your instruments will have significant influence on how well you do in your job as a whole, and, last but not least, on the evolution of the practice.