Eyecare providers optimism in the economy increases

The Vision Council released a new research study with key insights into operations and sentiments from eyecare providers in the U.S. including opticians, optometrists, ophthalmologists, eyecare practice managers, eyecare practice owners and other professionals involved in daily operations of eyecare practices. The report, Provider inSights Q2 2023, explores eyecare provider sentiments related to the state of their practices, the eyecare industry and the American economy.  

“This study demonstrates that while some eyecare providers might not have met all of their business performance goals in the second quarter, they have a more optimistic outlook for the rest of 2023 than they did in the first quarter,” said Alysse Henkel, Senior Director of Market Research and Analytics at The Vision Council. “They cite labor market concerns as a continuing obstacle.”

Report highlights

• The outlook for the US economy among the eye care providers in Q2 2023 has slightly improved compared to Q1
• Inflation challenges seen in Q1 did not change in Q2. Most eyecare providers said they increased prices for eyewear due to corresponding wholesale prices increases
• Hiring remains the biggest challenge reported in Q2. Most providers expect staffing levels at their practices to remain the same in 2023. Practices with more than one location are twice as likely to have a difficult time retaining staff than practices with just one location.

This study was conducted in July 2023. The full report is available in The Vision Council’s Research Download Center as a complimentary download for members of The Vision Council, with a paid option for non-members to download. 

Upcoming inSights Research to be released in Q3 of this year includes Focused inSights reports with detailed findings and analysis on Telehealth, Smart Eyewear and Vision Equipment.

SOURCE: The Vision Council