Mobile Momentum

The move to mobile continues forward, and it is changing the way people access health care—and eye care is no exception. According to Forbes, 71% of businesses have a website as of 2023, though Eyecare Business’s 2024 Annual Regional Market Trends Report found only 29% of eyecare professionals who don’t currently sell online plan to do so in the next two years.

Tip: Offering telehealth and online product sales translates to convenience as you extend your reach to where patients already are: online.

Whether you’re an independent optometrist, an optical retailer, or part of a larger practice, establishing a strong online presence can significantly benefit your practice and help you reach a broader audience.

Visibility, Trust, and Credibility

Most people turn to the internet to search for services, including eye care. If your practice doesn’t have an online presence, potential patients may not even know you exist. Not only does a well-designed website or social media profile make your services visible to people searching for eye care and eyewear in your area, but it also showcases your expertise, creating room to build trust and allow engagement with both existing and potential patients—especially when you designate space to highlight patient testimonials.

Showcasing Your Services and Products

Extending your eyecare practice into a digital space allows you to highlight your full range of services and products, from eye exams and specialty eyewear to contact lens dispensing. You can also share information about the latest advancements in eyecare technology, which may encourage patients to seek specific treatments or products that meet their needs.

Enhancing Patient Convenience

Offering telehealth and online product sales translates to convenience as you extend your reach to where patients already are: online. Many people have busy schedules, and the ability to consult with an optometrist virtually or order glasses online via your site makes it easier for them to get the care and products they need without disrupting their day. This is particularly helpful for patients who may live in rural areas or have mobility issues, ensuring they can still access quality eye care.

Veronica Daub

Associate Editor, Eyecare Business