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Alcon debuts new contact lens ordering app

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3 min read

Alcon, Inc. has introduced a first-of-its-kind application designed to enable patients to virtually order contact lenses from their eyecare practitioners (ECPs).

Wait a second … didn’t Alcon already launch an online ordering system?

Yes! Back in 2020, the company developed MARLO, an online platform designed as a virtual way for patients to connect with their ECPs by providing a personalized contact lens ordering service.

Available 24/7, the website also provided exam reminders, contact lens tips, and reorder notifications, among other accessibility features.

Important to note: this brand new MARLO app is an upgraded version of the MARLO website.

And the difference with this new tech is … ?

The contact lens ordering system is now available as a downloadable iPhone app, complete with new features and capabilities for both patients and ECPs, including:

  • Contact lens ordering and reordering portal
    • 24/7 ordering available with ground shipping to any location
  • Resources and reminders
    • Automated notifications for eye exam and reorders
    • Eyecare-based educational resources
  • Patient care intelligence
    • Patient trends and insights monitoring
      • Includes advanced analytics on order placements

Let’s talk more about these features.

Key components include:

  • Vision screener for recording patient responses
    • Enables patients to share vision screener results with ECPs
  • Contact lens ordering available via Apple iOS features
    • Prescriptions can be saved on Apple Health
  • Doctor locator for eyecare practices using MARLO
  • Pre-exam lifestyle questionnaire
    • Enables ECPs to provide a more personalized patient exam

So how much does this cost to implement into my practice?

Three membership plans with tiered accessibility features are available for ECPs:

  • Basic
    • Cost: Free
      • 24/7 online ordering to any location
      • Exam and reorder reminders for patients
      • Access to Alcon contact lens discounts
      • Turnkey returns (coming soon)
  • Pro
    • Cost: $24.95 per month / $249.40 per year
      • Includes all Basic level features, plus:
        • Ordering of popular Alcon eye care products
        • Customizable practice logo/branding
          • Available for both website and app interfaces
        • Optional patient vision screening via the iPhone app
  • ProPlus
    • TBD (coming soon)

Special note: ECPs can cancel their membership at any time.

What payment methods are accepted?

Per MARLO, the following:

  • Visa
  • Mastercard
  • American Express
  • Diners Club
  • Discover

Other acceptable forms include bank debits and bank transfers; a $50 discount is also being offered for Pro customers who choose to prepay their membership  annually, along with a 90-day free trial.

How do I sign up?

Request a demo here.  And click here to sign up for a membership.

Is the app version available now?

Alcon previewed the iPhone version (download via the Apple store here) of the MARLO app at SECO 2024 (Feb. 28-March 3), which is currently available for download here.

The Android version is expected to be available later this year.

*Featured image property of Alcon.

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