OFFERING SPECIALTY contact lenses in a practice requires interaction with the laboratories that manufacture them, so practitioners must feel comfortable with the crucial step of ordering. Lens ordering is most effective when a practitioner learns the “language” of specialty lenses, confidently communicates clinical observations to the laboratory, and fully utilizes available ordering resources. Developing a structured system for lens ordering can make the entire process smoother. Here are 3 ways practitioners can accomplish this.
Learning the language: Numerous manufacturers exist, each with distinct terminology to describe modifiable lens zones of each specialty lens modality (eg, secondary curves in orthokeratology, landing zones in scleral lenses). Practitioners should be comfortable with the verbiage used by the laboratories they order from and use consistent language when describing observations. In highly customizable modalities such as scleral lenses, clear terminology is critical to ensure the intended message is communicated in a lens order (Michaud et al, 2020).
Documenting and relaying the pertinent information: A clear understanding of specialty lens terminology allows for accurate and comprehensive documentation. During the examination, it is helpful to follow a consistent and repeatable pattern of lens evaluation and documentation, such as assessing the fit from the center outward. Describing findings and preferred modifications in the central, midperipheral, and peripheral regions creates a structured record that can streamline communication. Detailed examination notes reduce guesswork later when it is time to order or modify a lens.
For example, documenting “excessive central clearance” during a scleral lens evaluation does not provide enough information to guide a change. A more effective note would quantify the adjustment needed, such as “decrease central clearance by 150 microns.” When discussing these lens modifications with the consultation department, it is helpful to communicate the details concisely and in order of importance.
If the changes involve an overall design modification, such as adding a front-surface toric, implementing quadrant-specific haptics, or adding a dual sagittal depth, state this first. Follow with specific fit adjustments and over-refraction. Organized, precise communication ensures that both clinician and laboratory are aligned on the intended outcome.
Using the right resources: Manufacturers are accessible through customer service and clinical consultation, and many offer online platforms where lenses can be ordered with the click of a button. Straightforward modifications can often be managed over the phone, while complex alterations may warrant emailing photos, optical coherence tomography (OCT) images, or detailed lens evaluation findings. Thorough examination notes allow observations and requested changes to be efficiently incorporated into communication with the laboratory.
Ultimately, successful specialty lens ordering is not about memorizing every manufacturer’s nomenclature, but about developing a structured system and communicating with clarity and confidence. A productive lens order begins in the examination room, where consistent lens observation flow and precise documentation lay the foundation for effective laboratory collaboration. Understanding the pertinent information and using universal specialty lens terminology fosters clear communication between practitioner and manufacturer. When these elements are in place, ordering becomes a collaborative clinical process that minimizes remakes, improves efficiency, and supports better patient outcomes.
References
- Michaud L, Lipson M, Kramer E, Walker M. The official guide to scleral lens terminology. Cont Lens Ant Eye. 2020;43(6):529-534. doi: 10.1016/j.clae.2019.09.006