Growth in ophthalmology no longer starts in the operating room - it starts with the patient experience.

In this episode of Peer2Peer: The Podcast, host Dr Ben LaHood is joined by Dr Erik Mertens and Amanda Cardwell Carones to explore how deliberately designing the patient journey can transform patient satisfaction, strengthen trust and build a thriving, future-ready practice.

In this episode, we cover:

• Why practice growth starts before the first consultation
• How premium IOL technology enhances outcomes and patient confidence
• The role of trust, transparency, and communication in patient decision-making
• Using digital tools such as eyejourney to elevate patient education
• How structured patient journeys improve clinic workflows and team efficiency
• Why entrepreneurial thinking is becoming essential in modern ophthalmology

This episode is essential listening for ophthalmologists, cataract surgeons, clinic owners and healthcare leaders looking to connect clinical excellence with business success - without losing sight of what matters most: the patient.