“MEMBERS HELPING MEMBERS”-
AOA INTRODUCES PRACTICE ASSISTANCE PROGRAM

Launched in the spring of 2001, the AOA Practice Assistance Program — a first-of-its-kind practice management program for optometrists offers “one-on-one” coaching on various aspects of practice management. The program is free of charge but open only to AOA members.

The program matches “coaches” (experienced practitioners who have expertise in various aspects of practice management) with “seekers” (practitioners who feel they need some advice on some aspect of practice management). Consultations will take place primarily via telephone or e-mail.

Coordinators match most advisors and advice-seekers primarily on the basis of the type of information requested. Coaches and seekers are asked to fill out applications and select from a list of practice management topics:

• evaluating/analyzing a practice,
• buying a practice,
• career options,
• contact lenses management,
• delegating to staff,
• designing an office,
• developing a business plan,
• developing an office manual,
• goal setting,
• hiring a partner/associate,
• joining an existing practice,
• managing managed care,
• marketing a practice,
• overseeing the dispensary,
• patient communication,
• patients recall,
• patient retention,
• practice finance,
• selling a practice,
• staff hiring,
• staff training, and
• starting a practice.

Coaches are also asked to provide information regarding their practice (Vision Therapy, Low Vision, Pediatric, etc.