As I reviewed the outstanding content for this issue, I found myself reflecting on the value of engaging staff and providers with addressing important practice issues. This has especially been the case during the COVID-19 crisis.

Over my years in consulting, I have always tried to impress upon clients the importance of creating a culture that encourages a sense of ownership among practice stakeholders.

For the past 30-plus years, we have engaged BSM team members in our strategic planning process. We routinely gather feedback and meet to assess our current position while laying out a framework around our future vision and key goals. We engage team members with implementation of the agreed-upon strategic imperatives. This process contributes to creating a positive workplace where people choose to stay with the company.

With the various personal and professional cross currents brought about by COVID-19, it has been even more important for the team to feel connected to the core of the company. This process has served to provide emotional support when so many aspects of our foundation have been fractured.

Culture and staff engagement

Our cover feature highlights the steps being taken by the Carolina Cataract & Laser Center to overcome the challenges of maintaining practice culture during the pandemic (see p.8). The update on IOLs from Drs. Marjan Farid and Aman Mittal provides an excellent primer about the latest in IOL options for cataract patients (p.14). The role of staff in educating patients on available lens options can bring clarity to patients and allow them to make a better decision that aligns with their goals and achieves the best-possible outcomes.

Lynn Girdlestone’s excellent article emphasizes the staff’s role in educating patients concerning post-op drug regimen (p.20). Her step-by-step approach to patient education simplifies the process and provides a sensible approach for staff and patients. This same approach is also reinforced by Dr. Ranya Habash and Vanessa Collins as they discuss the important role allied health professionals can play as practices increase the use of telemedicine (p.22).

So, whether you are struggling to enhance the practice culture or improve operational efficiency, this issue of Ophthalmic Professional reinforces the value of engaging team members through education in an organized and motivating process. When done properly, team members feel a sense of ownership and are more likely to stick and stay with the practice.

Enjoy this thought-provoking issue of OP! OP