Knowledge & Understanding

Next, we must gain a knowledge and understanding of the products and services that our practice provides. If you are new to the practice, this takes some time, but it also takes you investing and understanding to be able to retain and truly grasp what it is that we do within our practice on a daily basis. And you need to take the initiative to gain that knowledge and grow that knowledge base within yourself. Now it’s up to your practice of course to give you the information you need, but it does take a little bit of self-research as well. And the passion behind that to truly devote yourself and to truly understand what it is you’re doing. 

Need tips on how to grow your knowledge base? 

Well, first, consider the knowledge that you already have — the things you already know how you can do. They are the things you have done over and over and you have practiced them so often that they have become like second nature. Every normal person knows how to walk and talk. But he could never have acquired this knowledge without practice. 

Next, we have an abundance of knowledge and resources available within the OSC learning center. Also, use your internal resources, your office manager, your team members, your optometrists and the owners. Ask questions and actively listen to the responses, absorb the information they provide you with and this information will help you take your patient care to the next level.

You must learn how to provide the knowledge and information you have gained, and relay that information to the patient in a clear and concise manner. Patients tend to trust and rely on the healthcare professionals who use simple words or language. Adopting effective communication not only improves the doctor-patient relationship, but builds trust. Make certain to use a positive and polite tone when conveying your message to your patients directly. 

Building relationships with patients, no matter what setting you’re in, sets a ripple effect. Once you have gained trust in your patient, you’ll make their visit more pleasant, and you personally will feel a better satisfaction from having connected with them. When a patient trusts you and feels as though you are advocating their best interests, they are more likely to listen to you and ask questions when they have them.