There are many great benefits of daily disposable contact lenses.
Despite these benefits, we know that oftentimes cost or other factors impact the value our patients perceive in them, driving them to start off in reusable lenses, particularly for those first time wearers.
In this video interview, Dr. Melissa Barnett breaks down the benefits of daily disposable contact lenses and shares how you can communicate them to patients more effectively.
We all know the benefits of daily disposable contact lenses, yet a majority of new contact lens wearers start in a reusable modality.
Cost is oftentimes a barrier not only when it comes to patients accepting daily disposable lenses, but also when it comes to doctors prescribing daily lenses. The difference in costs however might not be as great as it seems when taking into account other factors. For example, solution costs as well as artificial tear costs due to comfort issues can contribute dramatically to the overall price of reusable lenses making that perceived savings far less than it might seem at first glance.
Watch this video for tips on how to manage discomfort in contact lenses.
Environmental concerns can also be a deterrent when it comes to utilization of daily disposable contact lenses; however, contact lenses and their packets can be recycled. Do not underestimate this concern when it comes to patients and electing daily disposables!
Even those these factors are legitimate considerations for all parties involved, the most important thing to ensure is that your patients have all the facts and understand the benefits of daily disposable contact lenses to make informed decisions.
What about new wearers who might not be ready to commit completely to daily lenses?
It is not uncommon that patients will prefer to utilize a reusable contact lens, or may not be ready to commit fully to a daily lens. In these situations, Dr. Barnett will oftentimes prescribe a daily disposable lens for certain situations. Our patients live dynamic lifestyles and have unique needs.
Here are tips for managing contact lens dropout in new and existing wearers.
Prescribing daily disposable lenses for these patients to use for specific tasks or hobbies can oftentimes still be of great value to them, so we should avoid the mindset of thinking a single lens is all or none. By slowly introducing patients to and allowing them to experiencing the benefits of daily disposable lenses, they can then make informed decisions on what modality they prefer and understand your recommendations better.