Power Hour Optometry: Innovator Series Finale Summary
Episode Title: Innovator Series Finale: Top Strategies for an Efficient and Profitable Practice with Barti & Teem
Host: Eugene Shotsman
Release Date: April 30, 2025
In the final installment of the Innovator Series on Power Hour Optometry, host Eugene Shotsman explores cutting-edge strategies aimed at boosting efficiency and profitability within optometric practices. Recorded live from New York at Vision Expo East, this episode features in-depth discussions with two innovative companies: Barti, which is revolutionizing Electronic Health Records (EHR) and AI integration, and Team, which offers remote staffing solutions tailored for optometry offices. Both companies address the pervasive challenges of staffing shortages and operational inefficiencies, providing actionable insights for practitioners of all sizes.
Interview with Barti: Transforming EHR and AI Integration
The episode begins with Eugene Shotsman's conversation with representatives from Barti, a company at the forefront of reimagining EHR systems and integrating Artificial Intelligence to streamline practice workflows.
Streamlining EHR with AI
Barti is pioneering a fresh approach to EHR by leveraging AI to enhance daily operations without adding complexity for staff. Dr. Nguyen, a solo practitioner, shares his experience with Barti's solutions:
“[05:12] Dr. Nguyen: [...] I'm quite efficient at this time, thanks to Bardi, making my life so much easier going from paper chart into EHR. The whole process is very simple, very efficient.”
Addressing Industry Challenges
Trevor from Barti discusses the broader industry challenges, particularly the fragmented nature of current optometry software systems:
“[07:05] Trevor: And it is unfortunate, you know, because we're way behind dentistry, for example, when it's coming to adoption of AI tools or even frankly basic things like are you doing text message reminders for your appointments.”
Rapid AI Adoption and Future Prospects
The conversation highlights a significant uptick in AI adoption among doctors, with Trevor noting:
“[24:06] Trevor: We're seeing doctors adopt technology now faster than ever before. AI scribe in 12 to 18 months. Every hospital now in the US has that technology.”
This rapid integration is poised to transform practice management, making previously time-consuming tasks much more efficient.
Enhancing Patient Experience
Dr. Nguyen emphasizes how AI tools like two-way text messaging have streamlined patient communication:
“[09:11] Dr. Nguyen: [...] I prefer texting.”
This automation reduces administrative burdens, allowing more time for patient education—a factor that can directly influence sales and patient satisfaction.
The Role of Social Media and Branding
As a social media influencer, Dr. Nguyen discusses the importance of authentic online presence. He shares tips on maintaining genuineness and effective branding without overexposing personal life:
“[14:03] Dr. Nguyen: [...] Try to keep politics out of what you're posting. He wants to hear that over and over.”
His vibrant personal branding, such as his colorful hairstyle, serves as a recognizable trademark that sets him apart in the optometry community.
Vision for AI's Future in Practices
Looking ahead, Colton and Trevor envision AI assistants that handle a wide array of administrative tasks, effectively acting as virtual assistants akin to Jarvis from Iron Man:
“[25:13] Trevor: [...] What I think, in your practice, in two to three years, you will have an AI assistant that will literally be Jarvis from Iron Man.”
This advancement promises to further alleviate administrative burdens, allowing practitioners to focus more on patient care and less on paperwork.
Interview with Team: Innovating Remote Staffing Solutions
Transitioning from technological advancements, Eugene turns to Team, a company offering remote staffing solutions designed to address optometry practices' staffing challenges through trained remote employees from South America.
Remote Scribes and Increased Efficiency
Team provides remote virtual assistants who perform critical roles such as scribing, answering phones, and managing insurance verification. Barty Representative explains how their remote scribes integrate seamlessly with existing systems:
“[41:39] Colton: And the younger, how do they know which patient we're seeing?”
By utilizing tools like Zoom or Microsoft Teams, remote scribes can accurately transcribe patient interactions in real-time, allowing doctors to see more patients daily without compromising the quality of care.
Cost-Benefit Analysis
Team presents a compelling financial argument for their services. For approximately $10-$12 per hour, a remote scribe can help practices see an additional three to five patients per day, potentially generating an extra $1,200 in revenue against a daily cost of under $100:
“[43:48] Barty Representative: So they're essentially listening in to the doctor entering those notes into their EHR system.”
This cost-effective solution not only boosts revenue but also mitigates the financial burden associated with traditional in-office staff hires.
Overcoming Remote Work Challenges
Addressing concerns about remote work, Team emphasizes their rigorous vetting process and collaboration with universities like BYU to ensure high-quality, well-trained employees with minimal accent issues:
“[46:06] Colton: [...]”
Their international pathway program equips remote assistants with the necessary skills and soft skills to excel in optometry settings, ensuring smooth integration into existing practices.
Implementing Remote Solutions
Colton and the Team representative discuss the practical aspects of integrating remote staff, including training and continuous support. Team assigns a dedicated success manager to each practice, ensuring personalized training and seamless onboarding:
“[47:57] Colton: [...]”
This hands-on approach guarantees that remote assistants are well-prepared to handle specific tasks, reducing the learning curve and enhancing overall efficiency.
Revenue Cycle Management
In addition to scribing and front desk support, Team offers remote staff specialized in revenue cycle management and billing. This service helps practices streamline their financial operations without the need for extensive in-house training:
“[48:49] Barty Representative: [...]”
By handling billing and insurance tasks remotely, practices can focus more on patient care and less on administrative hassles, further driving profitability.
Conclusion: Embracing Innovation for a Thriving Practice
Eugene Shotsman wraps up the episode by highlighting the complementary roles of technology and remote staffing in transforming optometry practices. By adopting AI-driven EHR systems and integrating remote assistants, practitioners can significantly enhance efficiency, reduce burnout, and increase profitability.
“[36:16] Colton: [...]”
The episode underscores the importance of staying abreast of industry innovations and being open to adopting new solutions to meet evolving challenges. As the optometry landscape continues to change, embracing these strategies will be essential for maintaining a competitive edge and ensuring long-term success.
Key Takeaways:
- AI Integration: Leveraging AI in EHR systems can streamline documentation, reduce administrative burdens, and enhance patient interactions.
- Remote Staffing: Virtual assistants from companies like Team offer cost-effective solutions to common staffing challenges, enabling practices to serve more patients and increase revenue.
- Patient Experience: Automation tools free up time for more meaningful patient education, fostering better patient relationships and driving sales.
- Authentic Branding: A genuine online presence through social media can enhance practice visibility and patient engagement without overexposing personal life.
- Future Innovations: Continuous advancements in AI promise even greater efficiencies and capabilities, positioning optometry practices for future success.
By embracing these innovations, optometrists can navigate the complexities of modern practice management, ensuring both operational efficiency and a high-quality patient experience.