TRUMBULL, Conn.—IDOC’s national conference, The Connection 2023, drew more than 1,000 attendees, including record-breaking attendance by IDOC members, sponsor representative, and other industry professionals from across the country, according to the company. The theme for this year’s event was "Explore The Possibilities," inspiring attendees to think outside the box, get out of their comfort zone and learn and grow to enhance their practices’ success. The keynote speakers—world-renowned explorer Alison Levine, leadership guru Chris Goede, and optometry expert Sharon Carter—championed the conference theme with keynote sessions that helped owners and staff alike to better understand their personal values, work as a team, build trust and accept change.

A sponsor marketplace of over 50 exhibitors showcased industry innovations and provided attendees with ample opportunities to network with vendors, seek out new products and gain insight into industry trends.

IDOC introduced attendees to Three Rivers Optical—the newest addition to the IDOC family. Steve Seibert, managing director of Three Rivers Optical, and Oliver Spandow, IDOC chief operating officer, presented during a fireside chat on the main stage, diving into the strategy and long-term vision of IDOC’s newest Lab Service. Members had a chance to meet Seibert and his team at the Three Rivers Optical booth and learn more about the rich history of the independent optical lab.

IDOC’s suite of practice management services for the independent OD community received a tremendous response at the event, according to the company. “Last year, we launched IDOC Services from the main stage at The Connection. This year, we were able to demonstrate the success and tangible results these services have produced over the past 12 months, and the real-life benefits owners and practices are seeing from letting IDOC’s experts take on these practice tasks,” said Dave Brown, president and CEO of IDOC.

IDOC’s full suite of offerings were highlighted at the event including IDOC Marketing Services, Financial Services, Optical Services, HR Services, and Lab Services. IDOC Service experts from all around the country were available throughout the entire event to meet with members, driving IDOC’s commitment to innovation and business support for the independent optometry community. IDOC Services are available to all independent practices, regardless of alliance affiliations.

This year, IDOC brought back its Roundtables to kick off the week’s activities. Continuing education and practice management courses dominated the agenda, with over 25 hours of CE credits, role-specific classes and over 40 speakers to help drive new ideas and growth. “IDOC Roundtables are beloved by our members, and give owners and staff an opportunity to learn from each other and take away best practices to bring back to their own offices,” said Nathan Hayes, IDOC director of financial services.










Next year, IDOC’s national conference will be held in Austin, Texas. The event will take place at the Kalahari Resorts & Conventions in Round Rock, Texas, located about 20 minutes from downtown Austin, from Feb. 14-18, 2024. This family-friendly resort boasts an indoor waterpark, games and on-site restaurants and more. To get notified about the event and registration, click here.