Opticians, Dispensing

Many of the bookkeeping and record-keeping tasks opticians do are already handled by computers and software. For example, clinics use practice-management systems to track prescriptions, orders, inventory and insurance. In healthcare overall, automation of tasks like billing and coding has jumped in the last few years ^[1].

Some experts even suggest that AI could improve optical inventory forecasting and ordering (for example, helping decide how many frames or contacts to stock) ^[2]. Lens production is also partly automated: modern lens-grinding and edging machines cut and polish lenses to fit frames. Researchers are developing AI-powered cameras to check lens quality and spot tiny defects ^[3].

AI is also being explored to “fit” complex contact lenses by analyzing eye measurements and suggesting lens parameters ^[4].

Whether optical shops adopt AI quickly or slowly will depend on cost, benefits and trust. Right now most AI tools focus on clinical diagnostics or back-office work, not on dispensing eyeglasses. Small practices might find advanced systems expensive to buy and learn.

On the other hand, if AI can save time on tedious tasks, shops may try them – especially if there are staff shortages. Surveys show many eye-care professionals are optimistic about AI; in one poll about 72% of optometrists felt AI would improve their practice ^[5]. However, about half of them also worry about accuracy and safety.

In general, technology tends to advance more quickly in areas like billing or data entry (where practices are open to “even imperfect” solutions) than in the patient-facing parts of care ^{[1] [1]}. Importantly, any new AI must protect patients’ health data and meet safety rules. Overall, experts expect AI to grow as a helpful assistant that handles more of the clerical and machine-side work, while the personal coaching and skilled craftsmanship tasks will remain with human opticians ^{[1] [5]}.