Eye Care Professional of the Month

ECP of the MONTH

Mario Palermo, O.D.
Dr. Palermo & Assoc., Arlington Heights, Illinois

Mario Palermo, O.D., Dr. Palermo & Assoc., Arlington Heights, Illinois
Mario Palermo, O.D.

What progressive lens do you usually dispense?
I usually use a Varilux, mostly the Physio 360.

What A/R Coating do you prefer?
Crizal Alize and if available Alize with Clear Guard.

Do you tend to dispense more Silicone or non-Silicone
Contact Lenses?
I almost exclusively use Silicone Hydrogels unless the design demands otherwise.

What are your thoughts on Ophthalmologists opening more dispensaries in the future?
I don't see a problem. Optometrists are the best at operating dispensaries. As long as customer service is kept at a high level no one can compete with us.

What do you think the future holds for Independent dispensaries?
I see a good future. If we keep our patients best interests in mind we will thrive. Customer service is the key. We need to work on that continuously. Exceeding the expectation of patients keeps them loyal and drives referrals.

Do you find it easier to convert traditional bifocal wearers to the new PAL designs now available?
I have felt for quite some time that conversion has not been a large problem. There will always be the few who cannot adjust to anything different, but in general conversion works well. I do believe the Physio 360 with its control of induced astigmatism helps in that regard.

Are you finding that adaptation time is now shorter for those who switch to PALs?
It does seem shorter, which is very dependant on how progressives are explained initially and at dispensing. We should always be positive with our explanations and avoid the negatives.