Innovation isn’t just reshaping technology — it’s transforming eye care, and your practice can be at the forefront. Ruth Yomtoubian, VP of Global Innovation at VSP, joins Eugene Shatsman to discuss the cutting-edge trends shaping eye care’s future. Fresh from CES, the world’s largest tech show—she reveals how AI, data, and multi-sensory tech are redefining healthcare and why optometrists need to take notice.
Tech leaders outside of eye care are investing in vision like never before. AI-powered diagnostics, longevity-focused innovations, and sensor technology that collects and packages data from the eye are revolutionizing how we think about health. Eye care isn’t just about vision anymore, it’s part of a larger movement toward personalized medicine.
But it’s not just about the technology — it’s about the mindset of innovation. Ruth breaks down how practice owners can stay ahead of these changes, integrate emerging technology, and turn their practices into hubs of innovation. Whether it’s leveraging AI, expanding services beyond vision, or preparing for the future of healthcare, this episode delivers practical insights you can apply today.
The future of hearing, smell, and other “sensory technology” is also evolving at an extremely fast rate, and Ruth shares why optometrists may play a larger role than ever before in multi-sensory health. With data collection shifting toward more advanced biometric tracking, eye care is positioned as one of the most data-rich, predictive areas of medicine. This presents a massive opportunity for forward-thinking practices that are ready to embrace change.
The future of eye care is bigger than vision — it’s about leading the charge in healthcare innovation. With AI, data-driven diagnostics, and sensory technology advancing rapidly, optometry is positioned for massive change. Whether you’re looking to future-proof your practice or embrace new opportunities, this episode gives you the insights you need to stay ahead.
Key Takeaways
- The Power of Practice Layout: How an optimized physical space reduces bottlenecks and improves efficiency.
- Maximizing Doctor Time: Why leveraging scribes and trained technicians allows ODs to focus on high-value care.
- Tracking Patient Demographics: How understanding patient data drives better retention, referrals, and services.
- Leadership & Doctor Drive: The mindset shifts that separate stagnant practices from those that consistently grow.
- Removing Hidden Constraints: How identifying and fixing inefficiencies can dramatically increase daily patient volume and revenue.
In This Episode
- 00:00 Introduction
- 05:20 Optimizing Practice Layout for Efficiency & Revenue
- 12:45 Identifying & Fixing Hidden Practice Constraints
- 18:30 The Scribe Strategy
- 27:10 Smart Staffing Ratios for Maximum Productivity
- 34:20 Using Patient Demographics to Drive Growth
- 45:15 Leadership & Doctor Drive in Practice Success
- 53:40 The Future of Optometry & OD Advocacy
Contact Information
Connect with Dr. David Cockrell
Dr. David A. Cockrell is a distinguished optometrist and co-owner of Cockrell Eyecare Center in Stillwater, Oklahoma. He earned his Bachelor’s degree in Zoology from Oklahoma State University and his Doctor of Optometry degree from the Southern College of Optometry in 1981.
Dr. Cockrell has held numerous leadership positions within the optometric community, including serving as President of the American Optometric Association (AOA) in 2014 and as Chairman of the American Board of Optometry. He has also been a member and President of the Oklahoma State Board of Examiners in Optometry since 1996.
His dedication to patient safety and advocacy is evident through his role as Chairman of the Health Care Alliance for Patient Safety. Dr. Cockrell’s contributions have been recognized with his induction into the AOA National Hall of Fame and the receipt of the Oklahoma Association of Optometric Physicians Distinguished Service Award.
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/david-cockrell-070a0314/
Website: https://www.cockrelleyecare.com/
Connect with Eugene Shatsman
Website – https://www.eugeneshatsman.com/
LinkedIn – https://www.linkedin.com/in/eugeneshatsman