Top 3 highest-ROI investments for optometry

When running an optometry office, not all investments generate equal return on investment (ROI). Based on industry benchmarks, experience across practices, and cost-benefit analysis, here are the top 3 highest-ROI investments for most optometry offices:

1. Patient Recall Automation (Voice + SMS AI)

Why it’s high ROI:Annual eye exams are the foundation of recurring revenue — yet most practices lose 30–50% of patients due to weak recall systems.

Returns:

• Boosts recall rate by 30–60%

• Reduces no-shows by up to 40%

• Saves staff 4–10 hours/week

• Recovers $75K–$200K+/year in missed revenue

Example ROI:

• Cost: $300–$600/month

• Revenue gain: $10K–$15K/month

• 15–30x ROI

2. In-House Optical Sales Optimization

Why it’s high ROI:The optical shop can be a margin goldmine — but only if it's optimized for capture rate, upsells, and presentation.

High-impact investments:

• Frame board refresh (modern, in-demand brands)

• Staff sales training

• Try-on technology or virtual frame displays

Returns:

• Increase optical capture rate from 50% → 70%+

• Raise avg sale per pair by $75–$150

• Boost total practice revenue by 20–30%

Example ROI:

• Cost: ~$2K–$5K for upgrades/training

• Return: +$50K/year in product sales

• 10–20x ROI

3. Dry Eye or Specialty Services (e.g., Myopia Management, Scleral Lenses)

Why it’s high ROI:These services have low competition, high patient need, and great billing potential.

Returns:

• Build recurring treatment revenue (e.g., IPL, LipiFlow, Ortho-K)

• Higher exam fees + device/procedure billing

• Enhances patient retention and practice differentiation

Example ROI:

• Initial investment: $5K–$20K (equipment + training)

• Added revenue: $2K–$10K/month

• Break-even: Often within 6–12 months

• 5–15x ROI over 2 years

Lower-ROI Examples (Be Cautious):

Investment	Why It’s Lower ROI
TV ads / local magazines	Low targeting, high cost per lead
High-end decor before workflow is solid	Looks nice, doesn’t drive volume
Website redesign without conversion funnel	Pretty site, but no new bookings

Summary:

Rank	Investment	Typical ROI
🥇	Recall Automation	15–30x
🥈	Optical Optimization	10–20x
🥉	Dry Eye / Specialty Clinics	5–15x