25th Anniversary of Vision Source® Begins at The Exchange® 2016
Thousands Celebrate Innovative, Independent Optometry with Record-Breaking Attendance in San Antonio
KINGWOOD, Texas (March 17, 2016) – Vision Source, North America's largest independent optometric alliance, opened its annual member meeting, The Vision Source Exchange, from March 16 – March 19 at the Henry B. Gonzalez Convention Center in San Antonio, Texas. Vision Source celebrates 25 years of patient-focused optometry with the 2016 Vision Source Exchange theme ‘Celebrating Our Past, Forging Our Future.’
In the heart of historic downtown San Antonio, nearly 3,800 attendees including doctor members, optical staff and vendors are present to commemorate 25 years of independent optometry, making the 2016 Vision Source Exchange the largest national meeting in Vision Source history. Boasting over 514,000 square feet of exhibition space and nearly 200 exhibitors, Vision Source members and staff have access to the latest technology and the ability to test the newest products. In addition to this, Vision Source members have the ability to earn up to nine hours of complimentary CE courses for both optometrists and optical staff.
The 2016 Exchange was kicked off by its sold out opening night celebration with an exciting performance by the hometown Texas band ZZ Top at the state-of-the-art Tobin Center. Vision Source members, will enjoy three dynamic keynotes throughout the Exchange. Former Southwest Airlines executive Dave Ridley offered words of advice on building, nurturing, and sustaining legendary customer service that leads to customer retention. Dr. Derrick Artis, OD, Executive Vice President of Operations, will moderate a discussion between legendary coaches Bob Knight and Lou Holtz called "Lessons on Leadership." Bob and Lou will share stories of their experience building championship teams and cultures. They will convey how leadership is critical to building a successful practice. In addition to an incredible line up of keynote speakers, Vision Source members will be entertained by Adam Trent, "The Futurist", star of the Broadway hit show ‘The Illusionists’ and the number one selling magic show in the world.
Vision Source continues to build a robust pipeline of relationships with leading medical groups, integrated health systems, health plans and ACOs. Exchange attendees will receive in-depth information regarding the dozens of relationships Vision Source has developed, its outreach to diabetic patients, and how to effectively work with primary care doctors to improve collaborative care, early detection, and treatment.
During the 2016 Exchange attendees will be introduced to Vision Source Insight, the exclusive, interactive, innovative, online community of Vision Source. This new Vision Source online community promotes enhanced productivity, practice growth, and collaboration among colleagues. Another announcement is the Vision Source Social Media Team that will provide free one-on-one consultations and digital reputation reports for every Vision Source member as a part of their membership. The new Vision Source Social Media Team will provide member consultations, monthly webinars and online training opportunities that will highlight best practices, patient retention, and how to gain new patients via social media. “We are excited to offer Vision Source members an exclusive destination that will enhance the Vision Source member experience while educating members on industry trends and best practices in marketing,” said Bryan D. Pinciaro, Senior Vice President and Chief Marketing Officer of Vision Source. “Insight is the new digital heart of Vision Source.”
Boasting over 2,400 registered practices nationwide, The Optical Dream initiative returns in 2016 and is a featured exhibit at The Exchange. This exclusive Vision Source program provides members with free online edutainment training and incentives for optical staff. The Optical Dream teaches proven techniques to increase patient satisfaction and optical revenue. Optical staff also have access to trainings that focus on backup eyewear, annual supplies of contact lenses, and plano sun wear. Registrants will have an opportunity to learn more at the exhibit hall, take a photo with the Vision Source DreamCycle, and meet Dr. Walt West, OD, Vice President of Practice Management and lead of The Optical Dream.
“We are proud to come together in such large numbers to reflect upon the passion and dedication that our members have demonstrated over 25 years,” said Jim Greenwood, President and CEO of Vision Source. “This is a time to celebrate our accomplishments while preparing members for a prosperous future. San Antonio serves as the perfect backdrop for our 25th year. We are proud to offer an exclusive opportunity to our members and their staffs to investigate industry trends, discuss integrated health care opportunities, and network with fellow independent optometrists. Without the support of Vision Source members and our vendors, none of this would be possible. We truly appreciate everyone’s dedication and willingness to make each Exchange better than the last.”
About Vision Source
Founded in 1991, Vision Source is North America’s largest network of independent optometrists consisting of over 4,000 members. The clinicians in the Vision Source network enjoy access to newly evolving patient channels, including an expanding list of leading medical groups and integrated health systems with whom Vision Source optometrists collaborate. Additionally, members benefit from a wide range of innovative technologies, practice management tools, strategic marketing, and unsurpassed purchasing power. Leveraging these tools, the clinicians offer comprehensive eye care to their patients delivering an industry leading patient experience. For more information, call 888-558-2020 or visit www.visionsource.com.