Objective:

To provide insights on training and retaining effective surgical counselors in ophthalmology practices.

Key Findings:

• Successful surgical counselors should possess a blend of clinical knowledge and sales skills.
• Empathy and the ability to read patient needs are crucial traits for counselors.
• The interview process should resemble an audition to better evaluate candidates' skills.
• AI can assist in improving communication and compliance in surgical counseling.

Interpretation:

The effectiveness of surgical counselors is linked to their ability to combine clinical expertise with strong interpersonal skills, and the recruitment process should reflect this dual requirement.

Limitations:

• The discussion may not cover all potential traits or skills necessary for surgical counselors.
• The reliance on AI tools may not be universally applicable across all practices.

Conclusion:

A strategic approach to hiring and training surgical counselors can significantly enhance practice revenue and patient satisfaction.