IDOC Optometric Alliance

08/04/2026

Independent practice success depends on more than clinical expertise. It takes resilient systems, empowered teams and the right business support. ​

In this article, Simplifying Dispensing; Strengthening Business, fellow IDOC members share how they're streamlining operations, strengthening profitability and creating more time to focus on exceptional patient care.​

Read the full article:

Three ECPs share the pain points in running a practice and optical. IDOC's new Clerra lens range offers a simplified solution.

08/03/2026

The best part of Vision Forward isn't just what you learn. It's who you learn with.

Vision Forward is a two-day strategy summit where independent optometry practice owners and office managers step away from daily operations to collaborate with peers, learn from industry experts, and build actionable plans for long-term practice growth.

Join us for one of our two remaining 2026 events:

📍 Atlanta | October 9–10
📍 Phoenix | November 6–7

Watch what attendees had to say about the connections, conversations, and practical takeaways that make Vision Forward a valuable experience for independent practices.

Choose your event and register today!
https://optometry.idoc.net/vision-forward-2026-interest

07/31/2026

Thank you to everyone who joined us at Vision Forward Boston!​

Independent practice comes with unique challenges, and there's real value in coming together to share ideas, learn from one another, and leave with strategies you can put into action.​

Over two days, our members explored ways to protect profitability, grow optical sales, build stronger teams, strengthen patient conversations, and navigate today's business landscape with confidence. From expert-led sessions to candid roundtable discussions, the focus was on practical solutions for independent optometry.​

We're grateful to our speakers, presenters, and every member who contributed to the conversations that made Boston such a success.​

The conversation continues, and we're looking forward to seeing more of our members at Vision Forward Atlanta and Phoenix later this year. Register at https://optometry.idoc.net/vision-forward-2026-interest?_gl=1*mec2rn*_gcl_au*MjEzMTYyODMxNi4xNzgzOTUwMzAxLjE5MzY5NjA0NzIuMTc4NDcxMzM0OS4xNzg0NzEzMzQ4LjMxMjk1OTkxOC4xNzg0NzEzMzQ5LjE3ODQ3MTMzNDg.

07/29/2026

Vision Forward is about more than bringing members together. It's about equipping practice owners with ideas, strategies, and connections they can put into action long after the meeting ends.​

Thank you to Dr. Benjamin Whittridge for sharing his experience and the impact Vision Forward has had on his practice.

We're grateful to be part of your journey, and we look forward to seeing the positive changes that continue to unfold.​

There are still two opportunities to join us this year at Vision Forward in Atlanta and Phoenix. Register today and discover what you can take back to your practice at https://bit.ly/3RjQyLN?

07/28/2026

Would you trust a new lens line with your patients?​
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​In this clip, IDOC member Dr. Ansel Johnson explains why quality, reproducibility, and consistency are the foundation of his confidence in any lens portfolio.​ If consistent performance matters to your practice too, it's worth taking a closer look at Clerra.

Introducing Clerra - a quality ophthalmic lens range designed to make everyday dispensing simpler, without compromising on lens quality or patient care.​
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Exclusively available through IDOC Labs, the Clerra lens range covers 90% of most members’ dispensing needs, helping practices recommend with confidence, simplify conversations, and protect margins. Practices can save at least 25% on their lab bill when switching to Clerra.*

Get free IDOC Essential membership when using IDOC Labs at https://bit.ly/4fDeEcy

*Based on an analysis of new IDOC member lab bills. Individual savings may vary.

07/24/2026

Confused patients rarely move forward.​
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In this clip, IDOC member Dr. Ansel Johnson shares why simplifying lens choices, offering competitive pricing without sacrificing quality, and protecting your margins all matter when choosing a lens partner. Those priorities are what inspired the Clerra lens range.​
​
​Introducing Clerra - a quality ophthalmic lens range designed to make everyday dispensing simpler, without compromising on lens quality or patient care.​
​
Exclusively available through IDOC Labs, the Clerra lens range covers 90% of most members’ dispensing needs, helping practices recommend with confidence, simplify conversations, and protect margins. Practices can save at least 25% on their lab bill when switching to Clerra.*

Get free IDOC Essential membership when using IDOC Labs at https://bit.ly/4hpDxuv.​
​
*Based on an analysis of new IDOC member lab bills. Individual savings may vary.

07/23/2026

Vision Forward kicked off in Boston on July 17–18, bringing together independent optometry leaders for two days of practical strategies, expert insights, and workshops focused on building stronger, more successful practices.

There are still two opportunities to join us for business insights, peer discussions, and meaningful connections with others who understand the challenges and opportunities of independent practice. Don’t miss your chance to be part of the conversation and help shape what’s next for independent optometry.

Register today, and we’ll see you in Atlanta and Phoenix!
https://bit.ly/4wYKDe5

07/21/2026

The hardest part of owning a practice often happens outside the exam room.​
​
IDOC member Dr. Erin McCleary shares what it means to wear many hats as an independent practice owner. While caring for patients is what drives her, managing people, finances, growth decisions, and the day-to-day operations of a practice requires a different skill set altogether.​ Finding ways to protect your margins can create more flexibility to invest back into your team, your practice, and your future.​
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That’s where Clerra can help independent practices take control of costs without compromising quality.​
​
Introducing Clerra. A comprehensive lens range at market leading prices.​ Exclusively available through IDOC Labs, the Clerra lens range covers 90% of most members’ dispensing needs.​
​
Designed for simpler dispensing conversations to increase capture rate. Priced to save at least 25% or more on your lab bill. *Based on an analysis of new IDOC member lab bills. Individual savings may vary.​
​
Get free IDOC Essential membership when using IDOC Labs. Visit https://bit.ly/4hpEZwZ to learn more.

07/17/2026

Speed to market has become critical for independent practices, especially when waiting too long for solutions can directly impact both performance and patient care.​

​Susan Daly, Head of Optical Products, explains that for many practices, a delay of even a year in accessing the right solution can create real pressure on the business, which is why faster access through IDOC’s supply chain and scale has become so important.​

That ability to move quickly is what helps independent practices stay responsive, competitive, and financially stable in a constantly evolving market.​

That kind of responsiveness is what allows solutions to keep pace with the real-world needs of independent practices, ensuring they can access and implement what they need without lag or friction.​

Introducing Clerra.​ A new comprehensive lens range that is priced to save you at least 25% off or more on your lab bills.​ Exclusively available through IDOC Labs. *Based on an analysis of new IDOC member lab bills. Individual savings may vary.​

Learn more at https://idoc.net/join-idoc/?utm_source=facebook&utm_medium=idoc+website&utm_campaign=clerra+idoc+labs

07/14/2026

How do you create dedicated time to invest in your team and your practice?

In this episode of our Eye Own a Business podcast, Dr. Steve Vargo talks with Dr. Elizabeth Roush, an independent practice owner in Northeast Indiana, about how annual team retreats have helped strengthen leadership, improve communication, and support practice growth.

Dr. Roush shares how she plans and executes successful retreats, from choosing themes and activities to creating opportunities for connection and collaboration. She also discusses how her team carries the lessons from retreat day into the rest of the year to support better operations and patient care.

If you're looking for practical ideas to invest in your team and your practice, this episode is worth a listen.

Listen on audio: https://eyeownabusiness.podbean.com/e/re-release-the-most-valuable-day-of-the-year-how-annual-retreats-are-transforming-practice-culture/
Watch on YouTube: https://youtu.be/3C-OJs8zQtQ