Tear it out, copy it, share it. Our NEW monthly checklist for optical managers + opticians reveals a simple, smart lineup of things that need to be done each month in the optical to keep it running smoothly.

from inventory and vendor meetings to patient care and promotions, there’s a heckuva lot to be done in the optical each month. Which is exactly why we aim to help by breaking it down into palatable, weekly bites in our new Optical Checklist column.

The goal? To provide managers, opticians, and staff with a go-to monthly resource for getting it all done.

Our checklist is pulled together this month (and for each upcoming issue in 2018) by the highly respected ECP team at Complete Family Vision Care in San Diego—owner and optometrist Eric M. White, O.D., and staff Ashley Samuels, Julia Buchanan, Gloria Lopez, and Lorie White. They have worked hard to create this Optical Checklist so you don’t have to. Dig in, tear out, and share it up with your team.

FEBRUARY 2018

WEEK ONE

Make sure the optical and surrounding areas boast clean and sanitary conditions.

Dust all frames and frame display areas in the optical for a clean, appealing space for patients to try on eyewear.

If you do not have one already, put a facility maintenance program in place. If you do have one, check it to ensure you are up to date on all checks and measures, including heating and ventilation systems.

WEEK TWO

Set up a preventative maintenance and calibration schedule for all optical machines in the practice. If you have a schedule already, check it to ensure you are up to date on all checks and measures.

Be aware of any unusual smells in your practice, from the exam area to the optical. These could indicate a problem that needs to be addressed.

Maintain clean and organized reception and optical areas—dust and clean both areas this week and make sure that they are also clutter-free.

WEEK THREE

Set up up-to-date signage for sales, services, or deals coming up. Take down old signage and clean/dust existing signage.

Make sure the doctor’s business cards are stocked and visible in the reception area and/or the checkout desk.

Restock the waiting area with up-to-date magazines and reading materials for patients. This is also a great spot for educational materials.

WEEK FOUR

Set up a cleaning schedule or chart to ensure that all exam instruments and machines are cleaned between each patient.

Check your optical and entryway or windows to make sure that all signage and posters are clearly visible and up to date.

Check your inventory to ensure you are maintaining new and trendy frame styles, as well as the classics, to accommodate your patient demographics.