AAOpt 2025: Retaining contact lens patients with Dr Susan Gromacki

Susan Gromacki, OD, MS, FAAO, FSLS, presented a lecture at the American Academy of Optometry (AAOpt) Academy 2025 meeting in Boston, Massachusetts that focused on contact lens realities and practice behaviors. Collaborating with Roxanne Achong-Coan, OD, FAAO, FIAOMC, FSLS, FBCLA, Dipl AAO CCLRT, and Shelby Brogdon, OD, Gromacki shared insights from a study involving over 1400 patients conducted by the Contact Lens Institute.

The presentation revealed a significant missed opportunity in eye care practices. A striking 47.8% of patients who have never worn contact lenses expressed interest in trying them, yet only 10% of eye care practitioners actually discuss contact lens options with their patients. This substantial gap represents a tremendous potential for practice growth and patient satisfaction. Gromacki emphasized the critical challenge of patient retention, particularly noting that many patients drop out within the first month of contact lens use. She advocated for a comprehensive approach involving both doctors and staff to address this issue. The key is to make contact lens discussions a consistent part of every patient interaction.

Technological advancements in contact lens materials have been remarkable. Companies have invested millions in research and development, resulting in lenses that are healthier, more comfortable, and easier to handle than ever before. Gromacki stressed the importance of utilizing these new technologies, warning that failing to offer the latest options could result in losing patients to more progressive practices. A crucial point in her presentation was the recommendation to avoid making assumptions about patients' financial capabilities. Instead, practitioners should confidently offer the best available technologies. By presenting top-tier options, practices demonstrate expertise and commitment to patient care.

The lecture's core message was simple yet powerful: actively engage patients in contact lens discussions, leverage cutting-edge technologies, and create a practice culture that prioritizes patient needs and preferences. Gromacki believes that by asking the right questions, educating patients, and offering innovative solutions, eye care practices can significantly improve patient attraction and retention. Her approach represents a proactive strategy for modernizing contact lens care, emphasizing that the current technologies are better than ever and provide an exceptional opportunity to meet patient desires and improve overall eye care experiences.