Communicating Contact Lens Safety to Patients During COVID-19

There is an excess of information circulating that suggests people should not be wearing contact lenses during COVID-19. However, the CDC reports that there is no evidence showing contact lens usage puts you at a higher risk of contracting the virus¹. This conflicting news has caused confusion among contact lens users. It is important to reinforce proper care and to educate your patients on contact lens safety using these tips:  

• Gather facts from reputable sources. Any information you communicate should be from trustworthy organizations. VSP has provided helpful resources on the topic here that you can communicate to your patients.
• Share information on social media.  We have provided a few images below that you can share on social media to reiterate proper contact lens care and hygiene practices. Another interactive way to engage with patients on the subject is through video. Find tips for creating your own high-quality video here.
• Set up an automated message. If you are receiving an influx of contact lens safety questions and concerns, craft an automated email response or Facebook message that auto replies when someone sends a message with the word “contacts” and “safety” in it. Consider using a message that provides an overview of the topic or “5 facts contact lens and glasses wearers need to know.”
• Create a fact sheet for patients. Create your own document (or reference the one here, here, or here) that outlines proper contact lens usage and care. Add the document to your website and print the information to display in your office. VSP also provides information on member-specific contact lens offers here, including Bausch + Lomb and CooperVision, that you can add to your fact sheet. Find rebate offers for Unity BioSync here, and for additional resources on contact lens information, visit their website. If you have specific questions, please reach out to unitybiosync@vsp.com.
• Update your website. Many patients may refer to your website before calling or emailing your practice. Provide important contact lens information on your homepage or write a blog post surrounding contact lens safety and proper usage.