This article was originally published in a sponsored newsletter.

Myopia management is one of the hottest topics in eye care. While there are devices and pharmaceutical options for myopia management, orthokeratology (ortho-k) can set practices apart in a local market. Here is my journey to embracing ortho-k and how it has benefited my patients and the practice.

Initially, I was curious about why ortho-k was important and how it could be positioned in practice. I became more knowledgeable about ortho-k by reading literature materials and attending CE and manufacturer webinars. I also attended conferences that focused primarily on myopia management, which really kick-started my growing passion.

The next step to incorporating ortho-k was making an investment in a corneal topographer. This was important for accurate corneal imaging and patient efficiency. The patient base was then analyzed to determine how many children (i.e., potential myopia management ortho-k patients) were in the practice. I also worked on scripting ways to talk to parents and patients about this program. A protocol on how to present the information was created, which included personalized education for patients and families to take home.

I became passionate about integrating ortho-k into my practice, as it can be life-altering. Being a high myope myself, and a mother, this really hit home. In the past six years, the practice has fit about 150 ortho-k patients, and it continues to grow every year.
 
Looking back, besides a commitment to a topographer, analyzing the patient base, and professionally embracing ortho-k, the most important decision was developing a relationship with a lens manufacturer that was compatible with our practice.
 
We’re in a busy private practice, and the time that we have to spend on each patient’s case is limited. So, efficiency is extremely important. It is critical to have a trusted lens manufacturer for every necessary aspect including sales, ordering, consultation, policies and product offerings. It is important to communicate with a consultant quickly and to understand what they’re saying about needed adjustments.

My office worked with multiple vendors until we found a primary company to work with. Our lab partner walks us through lens construction and lens construction education.

Top Tips

• Become curious about ortho-k for myopia management.
• Build your knowledge base.
• Purchase a topographer. If you have one already, become an expert on the important role it plays in ortho-k.
• Build trusting connections with families. They will be your biggest referral source.
• Partner with an ortho-k vendor that you can trust—one that has the personnel, products, policies, and company history that are compatible with you and your practice.