Vision Source is introducing a landmark initiative for private practice optometrists (ODs) intended as a “major strategic investment” in the organization’s commitment to strengthening and shaping the future of independent optometry.
First, let’s take a look at Vision Source.
Established in 1991, owned by EssilorLuxottica, and headquartered in Kingwood, Texas, Vision Source is known as the largest network of independent private practice optometrists in North America.
To date, the organization has provided +4.7K optometric practices with business support, purchasing power, and technology—all while enabling members to continue operating independently.
- See here and here for details on how Vision Source helps ECPs transition their practices (whether they’re already in practice or starting their own).
- And check out how member practices benefit patients
This sounds oddly familiar to another organization you just reported on …
You must be thinking of the newly-launched VIEW Optometry (our coverage here).
Whereas VIEW is a new, doctor-led alliance and the Essilor-owned Vision Source boasts an established reputation, both are independent optometry-focused networks geared toward supporting and elevating private practice ODs.
So, in a nutshell: While similar in their support for independent optometry, these organizations are notably not the same.
Noted. Now talk about this new initiative.
A major component of Vision Source Member Dividends is its recognition (and investment) in member practices that demonstrate the organization’s core strengths.
Specifically, the initiative is reported to encourage:
- Practice growth
- Includes adoption of training, technology, and patient-care tools to enhance a practice’s clinical and operational performance
- Infrastructure advancements
- Supports system-wide upgrades advancing a practice’s data analytics, connectivity, and overall efficiency
- Network strength
- Amplifies Vision Source’s brand and emphasizes “fostering collaborative platforms that expand influence across the optical industry.”
- Industry leadership
- Reinforces the organization's reputation as a leading optometric alliance for private practices.
To note: In response to Glance’s request for more information about these components, Vision Source shared that the initiative is ongoing and continues to evolve—with more details to follow as it launches its next phase of development.
Circle back to that investment component.
Vision Source’s view of this initiative as a “strategic investment” is quite literal, as the organization said it will return an (unspecified) portion of revenue to optometric practices taking part in the program.
- And before you ask: No, no specific details are currently available regarding the exact amount of revenue participating practices will receive.
The intent behind this move: “To accelerate advancements in technology, infrastructure, and patient-care capabilities" across its national network.
“By investing directly in practices, we strengthen both individual offices and the collective power of our network,” according to Amir Khoshnevis, OD, Vision Source president and chief medical officer.
And this isn't the first program it’s offered for members, right?
Correct. In fact, Vision Source already offers several programs designed for the clinical and operational sides of OD practices: business growth, staff training, charitable giving, and practice transitions.
Among these:
- Practice transitions program: Features a suite of tools and resources to help ECPs preparing to buy, sell, or transition a clinical practice
- Vision Source Foundation: Provides financial relief for ODs impacted by catastrophic events
- New member program: A structured onboarding process to help new members quickly and successfully integrate into the optometric alliance.
Check out the full list of initiatives.
- And as a bonus: The organization also provides continuing education (CE) opportunities for members and their staff.
So! If I’m an OD interested in this program … how can I learn more?
All inquiries regarding Vision Source membership (including the member dividends program) can be directed here.