NORWALK, Conn.—Returning to a live, in-person format for 2022, IDOC’s annual national conference, The Connection, is scheduled for Feb. 24-26 in Orlando, Fla. The three-day event will offer attendees a firsthand look at the full spectrum of IDOC’s new practice management services—turnkey offerings designed to free ODs from routine business management tasks. IDOC executives see the services as a continuation of IDOC’s long-standing commitment to innovation and practice owner empowerment, according to an announcement this week.

The event is open to all IDOC members, as well as the larger independent optometry community, and interested parties can register here.
 
The Connection 2022 will resume a full agenda of employee/role-based tracks focused on the goals and challenges of independent optometry practices. The conference theme, “Inspiring Innovation,” will provide new insight into the critical role of business innovation in private practice success. In addition, the event will feature more than 40 event sponsors who will offer exclusive on-site discounts on premium products, services and equipment, the announcement noted.
 
“We are thrilled to be returning to a live, in-person event in 2022,” IDOC chief executive officer Dave Brown said. “It’s the perfect opportunity to share what has become a new focus for IDOC: turnkey services that will help independent ODs spend less time on management tasks and more time on patient care and personal pursuits.”
 
“We’re confident that our new services will bring immediate value to our members,” added Oliver Spandow, IDOC’s chief financial officer. “As an alliance, we’re committed to providing the tools, guidance and advice that drive success. The Connection 2022 is the ideal opportunity for our members to see what is available and incorporate our new offerings into their business plans.”
 
Both IDOC members and non-members are encouraged to bring their whole practice and attend The Connection 2022 as a team; multiple tracks will focus on individual roles and responsibilities, and specialized staff training and networking will be available. Registered attendees are also invited to participate in a TopGolf event on Friday night, a chance to relax and network in an informal setting.
 
Headquartered at the Hilton Orlando, The Connection 2022 is designed to be a family-friendly event; world-famous theme parks and area attractions are located nearby, and childcare will be provided free of charge to registered attendees.
 
With health and safety a primary concern, IDOC said it will be monitoring the challenges associated with the ongoing pandemic, and will put appropriate safeguards in place for live, in-person events as recommended by the CDC, local authorities and the host hotel.
 
For more information about The Connection 2022, call (203) 853-3333 or visit idoc.net/events.