1. Don't use an appointment book; use a computer.
2. When a patient calls to cancel an appointment, always ask WHEN you can reschedule.
3. When a customer walks into the office for adjustments or repairs, ask when she had her last eye exam. If it has been over a year, offer to schedule one.
4. When a patient calls to reorder contacts, check the computer to see when she had her last eye exam and ask to schedule a one, if appropriate.
5. When scheduling appointments, ask if there are family members requiring exams.
6. Place a sign out front that reads, "Now accepting new patients."
7. Give employees business cards with a "Check Yearly, See Clearly" logo and a "Call for an appointment" number.
8. Send patient recall cards reminding them of an upcoming appointment or time to schedule a new one.
9. Call each patient with an appointment reminder the night before the exam. You may also consider using an automated service to perform this task.
10. Consider allowing patients to schedule their own appointments online.
Bonus:
11. Value you patients' time by starting their appointments on time. They will be more likely to return the favor as well as return to your office for their next exam.