Indie ODs, Patient Care and AI

DAKOTA DUNES, S.D.—When we think of AI in health care, we often think of it on the large scale—how the biggest, most technologically advanced are using it with vast swathes of patients. And while that does happen, AI is not out of reach, or out of the realm of possibility, for independent ECPs either. As reported in Vision Monday’s recent cover story “The AI Connection With Eyecare,” the team at Dunes Eye Consultants in Dakota Dunes, S.D., are on the verge of adopting AI technology to help streamline patient scheduling tasks—and there’s more to come. Practice owner Steven Ferguson, OD, spoke to VM’s Stefani Kim.

Nishan Pressley, OD

Nishan Pressley, OD, Essential Eyecare & Optical, Apopka, Fla., shared her most memorable moments of January 2025, including being named part of the Contact Lens Institute 2025 Class of Visionaries.

Feeling the Love

NEW YORK—Valentine’s Day is just around the corner, and love is in the air. No matter if it’s romantic, platonic, familial, or love for the work you do, February 14 is a day to celebrate love in all its forms—both in your personal life and in the office. This week, we’re taking a look at how some independent ECPs are gearing up for Valentine’s Day, from heart-themed office décor to special promotions and more. Take a look and grab some inspiration wherever you feel the love—there’s still plenty of time to get your office ready for Cupid to stop by.

Local Retailers Win Big During 2024 Holiday Shopping Season

NEW ORLEANS—While the 2024 holiday shopping season data revealed an 8.7 percent increase in sales compared with last year and a notable surge in mobile shopping, an untold story is the growing consumer preference for local retail. According to data from Locally's real-time network of more than 55,000 retailers worldwide, 71 percent of consumers preferred local retailers, and nearly 50 percent of online shoppers abandoned carts when a local pickup wasn't an option.

Transitions Optical Names Three Indie Practices as 2024 Innovation Awards Finalists

PINELLAS PARK, Fla.—Transitions Optical has announced the finalists for its annual Transitions Innovation Awards program, which recognizes individuals and organizations from North America who have shown commitment to implementing innovative programs and technologies over the past year. Drew Smith, senior director, North America channels, Transitions Optical, said, “We are proud to recognize the exceptional achievements of this year’s finalists. They have set new standards of excellence in our industry while demonstrating commitment to our core values of quality, education, service and innovation, and we look forward to celebrating their incredible work at Transitions Academy in February.”