2009 is a peak year to make year-end tax decisions because a number of deductions will apply this year only. If your practice is considering purchase of major equipment, now is the time to make the move. Ophthalmology Management Magazine offers a detailed explanation of the relevant deductions and rules in its November issue.

Your purchasing power is further enhanced because many manufacturers are running end of year promotions. We can help you select the best equipment for your practice. Call us today to assure delivery before the end of the year.

Reliance’s full line of exam chairs, stools, and instrument stands represent the industry’s standard of excellence. These products outperform and outlast the competition because they’re sensibly designed and quality built. Precise patient positioning is effortless. Controls are strategically placed to save you time and energy.

Reliance chairs offer many improved features:

• Membrane switches last 10 times longer than mechanical switches and eliminate the need for high voltage in the chair back
• Chairs can be programmed to pre-select the most used positions. A safety switch prevents unwanted operation of the chair.
• Reliance chairs are UL listed.
• Each Reliance chair is crafted to order. You can choose the color and upholstery style the best enhances your office décor.
• Robust mechanical parts, handsewn upholstery, and baked on paint assure durability. You can enjoy many years of trouble free operation. You get your money’s worth with Reliance.
• Reliance products are made in the USA.

Give us a call to learn more about Reliance products. Perhaps now is the time to upgrade your exam room equipment.

Some popular children’s gifts around the holidays can cause serious eye injuries. In recognition of Safe Toys and Celebrations Month, the American Academy of Ophthalmology through its EyeSmart™ campaign reminds parents of the dangers that toys may pose to children’s eyes and offers tips on how to choose safe toys for gift-giving. Share this information with your patients.

A serious eye injury from a toy can ruin your family’s holiday and, more seriously leave your child with permanent vision loss.

Children receive all types of potentially unsafe presents during the holidays, including BB guns, darts, pellet guns and paintball guns. According to the Consumer Product Safety Commission, there were more than 235,000 toy-related injuries treated in U.S. emergency rooms in 2008; nearly three quarters of those injured were children under age 15.

With so many toys being recalled or having the potential to cause injuries, many parents are wondering what toys are safe. Sports equipment, a popular gift, should also include the protective eyewear. Sports-related eye injuries can cause permanent vision loss and account for about 40,000 eye injuries annually.

Tips for a safe holiday season:

• Avoid purchasing toys with sharp, protruding or projectile parts.
• Make sure children have appropriate supervision when playing with potentially hazardous toys or games that could cause injury.
• If you plan to give sports equipment, provide appropriate protective eyewear with polycarbonate lenses.
• Check labels for age recommendations and be sure to select gifts that are appropriate for a child’s age and maturity.
• Keep toys that are made for older children away from younger children.
• The branches and needles of Christmas trees can be hazardous to the eyes, so be especially careful when untying your tree. The branches can burst forward, hitting and injuring your eyes. Glass ornaments should be hung out of a child’s reach to avoid potential injury.

The last couple of years have been challenging for all of us in this eye care community. The compound effects of a recession and the uncertain future of health care reform have forced a defensive attitude on all concerned.

We remain optimistic. Our loyal customer base continues to grow because you appreciate the true value of our reliable, consistent service. We realize that we must work hard to maintain our good reputation. Our goal is to continue to build on this foundation, and to improve the quality of our service so that we will remain your premier instrument supplier well into the 21st century.

We at Bell appreciate your support. We hope that 2010 will bring continued good health and prosperity to you and your families. Happy Holidays!