Dr. Ryan Corte discusses the importance of having an inclement weather policy for private practice owners, particularly in the field of optometry. He shares personal experiences navigating severe weather events and emphasizes the need for effective communication and operational guidelines to ensure patient safety and business continuity during unpredictable weather conditions. The conversation highlights the significance of preparing for natural disasters and the necessity of having clear policies in place to manage staff and patient expectations during such events.

Chapters

00:00 Navigating Inclement Weather in Private Practice

10:18 Establishing Effective Communication and Policies

17:51 Resuming Operations Safely and Efficiently

Takeaways

• Having an inclement weather policy is crucial for private practices.
• Effective communication with staff and patients is essential during storms.
• Safety should always be the top priority for patient care.
• Operational guidelines help navigate unpredictable weather events.
• It's important to assess the situation dynamically as weather changes.
• Bringing patients in earlier can help manage schedules during storms.
• Clear policies on pay and time off are necessary for staff.
• Utilizing technology can enhance communication during emergencies.
• Resuming operations safely and efficiently is critical after a storm.
• Preparation is key to managing inclement weather in practice.

Dr. Ryan Corte discusses the introduction of Essilor's Stellest lenses, the first spectacle lens in the US proven to slow pediatric myopia progression. He explores the increasing prevalence of myopia, its risk factors, and the importance of proactive myopia management in optometry. Dr. Corte shares insights on how to effectively incorporate Stellest lenses into clinical practice, the science behind their design, and the benefits of myopia control. He emphasizes the need for patient education, proper billing practices, and the importance of ongoing monitoring and follow-up care for myopic patients.

Chapters

00:00 Introduction to Essilor's Stellest Lenses

01:05 Understanding Myopia and Its Risks

08:57 How Stellest Lenses Work

11:21 The Importance of Myopia Management

14:13 Implementing Myopia Control in Practice

19:52 Patient Education and Consent Forms

22:51 Best Practices for Myopia Management

Takeaways

• Essilor's Stellest lens is the first US spectacle lens proven to slow myopia progression.
• Myopia is increasingly recognized as a disease process rather than just a refractive error.
• The prevalence of myopia is rising, with significant implications for children's eye health.
• Proactive management and early detection of myopia are crucial for long-term outcomes.
• Screen time and lack of outdoor activity are significant risk factors for myopia in children.
• Stellest lenses offer a low-barrier treatment option for myopic children.
• Data shows Stellest lenses can slow myopia progression by 71%.
• Patient education is essential for successful myopia management.
• Implementing a structured myopia management protocol can enhance practice efficiency.
• The optometry profession has a unique opportunity to improve pediatric eye care through myopia management.

Ryan Corte, OD, reflects on the challenges and growth experienced throughout 2025, emphasizing the importance of reflection and learning. He shares insights from conversations with colleagues in the optometry field, highlighting the diverse paths within the profession and the need for resilience in the face of adversity. Looking ahead to 2026, Ryan expresses his commitment to providing valuable content and fostering community engagement among eye care professionals.

Chapters

00:00 Reflecting on 2025: A Year in Review

02:49 The Evolution of Optometry: Insights and Innovations

06:11 Navigating Challenges: Personal Journeys in Optometry

08:53 Embracing Change: The Future of Eye Care

12:07 Looking Ahead: Goals and Aspirations for 2026

Takeaways

• Reflecting on the past year is crucial for personal growth.
• Optometry offers diverse career paths and opportunities.
• Embracing challenges can lead to resilience and strength.
• Community engagement is vital for the future of optometry.
• The profession is evolving with advancements like AI.
• Authenticity in sharing experiences fosters connection.
• Continuous learning and adaptation are key to success.
• 2026 presents opportunities for intentional growth.
• Feedback from the community shapes future content.
• The journey in optometry is unique for everyone.