Expand Your Clinical Services with Chemical Cauterization with Dr. Brett Richardson

In this episode, we sit down with Dr. Brett Richardson, founder of DermaCautery to discuss chemical cauterization of benign skin lesions, who can perform it in the practice, and the benefits it brings to your business and your patients. 

Key Takeaways:

1. Chemical cauterization of lid lesions is within the training of optometrists, and is permitted in many, but not all states.
2. The procedure is relatively straightforward. A wooden applicator is soaked in the chemical agent. Following application, the lid lesion will no longer receive blood supply, leading to necrosis and sloughing off. Follow up is 2-3 weeks and is rare to have complications.
3. Patients actively desire to have these skin lesions removed but aren't necessarily thinking about having it done in the optometrist's office. The lead in conversation is important and many patients will be open to receiving treatment.
4. Staff are a great asset with this service. It is not a major burden on the team as the treatment and preparation is relatively simple. Getting them on board is key to success.
5. Depending on the patient complaints, it may or may not be billable to insurance. For cosmetic only, it is a cash based procedure. On average, each treatment adds $350 per patient to your top line. Given most of it is a service based, most of that drops to your bottom line.

What Brett is Reading:

• 10X Is Easier Than 2X by Dan Sullivan and Dr. Benjamin Hardy

Practice Advantage Reading List

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