Best Practices Honorees

2021 H O N O R E E

Blink A L B U Q U E R Q U E , N M

Blinknm.com Est 2002 Number of Doctors: 1

As the sole optometrist at Blink in Albuquerque, N.M., Alissa Irons, OD, believes that investing in a large, exceptional staff is key to providing an exceptional patient experience. The practice’s customer service philosophy is simple: Never say “no” to a patient—and the 13-person staff is empowered to do whatever is necessary to ensure they never do. Dr. Irons starts by hiring smart and outgoing people, pays them competitively, and offers extensive bonuses to keep them motivated to work and exceed their goals. Staff retention provides consistency for patients that has turned out to be crucial to the practice. While many practices are currently focused on adopting the medical model, Dr. Irons is focused on remembering the roots of optometry—and that is that patients come to Blink for glasses and

contact lenses. Instead of feeling defeated by online contact lens sales, Dr. Irons chose to increase her stocked lenses and sell annual supplies to keep prices competitive. While COVID-19 has presented many challenges, Dr. Irons believes that opportunities abound for optometrists with patients who are spending more time on digital devices or those who grow frustrated with fogging glasses during mask wear. Blink finds unique ways to differentiate themselves in the area. As a result, the practice has been recognized by a local magazine in categories such as “Best Optometrist” and “Best Eyeglass Shop” for five years.

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