The Focused View: Empowering Eye Care Professionals
"The Focused View" is a podcast dedicated to exploring the latest trends, strategies, and innovations in the eye care industry. Hosted by industry expert Michael Nasser, each episode features in-depth interviews with thought leaders and practitioners who are pushing the boundaries of optometry. With a focus on empowering eye care professionals and elevating the industry, "The Focused View" provides valuable insights and inspiration for anyone looking to stay ahead of the curve in this rapidly evolving field. Tune in for engaging conversations, expert analysis, and a clear vision for the future of eye care.
The Focused View: Empowering Eye Care Professionals
EP34: What We Can Learn from U.S. Optometry: A Cross-Market Conversation with Erich Mattei
Ever wonder how optometry practices in the US compare to those in Australia and what we can learn from each other? In this episode, we are joined by Erich Mattei, President + Chief Vision Officer of Akrinos, to explore the landscape of independent practice, the impact of private equity, the evolving scope of practice, and how technology & consumer behaviour are reshaping the industry in the US and Australian optometry market.
With over a decade of hands-on experience in vision care and business consulting, Erich brings a unique lens to the conversation, drawing on his deep market insight and passion for empowering independent optometrists. This episode is packed with insights and a great reminder of how much we can learn from each other across borders.
Key Topics with Timestamps:
2:21 - Meet Erich Matte and his professional background
5:43 - The opportunity that started Akrinos
7:35 - The 3 phases of the optometry business lifecycle
11:23 - Australia and US market similarities and differences
18:14 - Private Equity Surge: Threat or Opportunity?
21:07 - The riffle effect benefits of private practice to the local community
25:56 - Expanding scope of care & optometry's evolving role
32:20 - The influx of optometry graduates in the US and Australia
34:31 - The future of telehealth in eye care
40:01 - Thinking about the new consumers: Gen-Z behaviour and digital expectations
42:42 - Niche Services, Membership Models & Alternative Practice Structures
47:43 - RX trends and the changing optical business
53:49 - The power of being independent
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All the other links and resources mentioned in this episode can be found at
https://www.thefocusedview.com.au
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Learn More About Us:
Website: https://www.thefocusedview.com.au/
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Thank you for joining us in this episode of The Focused View Podcast. If you enjoyed this episode, give us a 5-Star rating, and leave a review on Apple Podcast and Spotify to help us reach even more eye care professionals and build a community of innovation and see new opportunities within the optical industry. Talk with you next time!
