Helping patients adapt to progressive lenses can be challenging, but a structured approach can make all the difference. Whether you're identifying the cause of discomfort or addressing potential issues before they arise, these strategies will help you achieve the perfect fit for each patient.
1. Be Consistent
Start with a clear, step-by-step process, and make sure to document everything. I find it helpful to use a two-column format to compare data from the old pair and the new pair side-by-side. This makes it easy to pinpoint key differences. Focus on:
- Rx changes
- Differences in fitting parameters such as OCs, wrap angle, frame size, pants, and seg heights
- Progressive design change
- Was one a short corridor and the other not
- Prism Thinning
- Material Change
- Treatments such as coatings and photo add-ons
- Base curve - problems here often go away after a short adaption period
2. Dig Into The Data
With all the data in hand, examine each aspect: what has changed, and by how much? Begin with the
prescription, then move on to measurements, lens design, and so forth. Was there no or little change or up to a whole bunch of change? Stoplight your findings (green, yellow, red).
3. Be Open to Your Patient and Be Ready to Explain Your Findings
Keep your patient informed at every step. Briefly explain what you’re doing and why. Addressing their concerns early on can prevent complaints later. Plus, educating them shows your expertise and builds trust. Hearing “no one has ever explained that before” should be a red flag—we need to do better in optics.
4. Reach Out for Help if Needed
If you’re stuck, don’t hesitate to contact your lab. They’ve processed countless orders and have a wealth of knowledge. Think of them as the encyclopedias of lenses. Share your analysis with them, and they’ll provide the solution. Trust their expertise—they’ve seen it all.
