PEN, Diversified & ECPN are Merging!

ABB Optical Group announced that it is merging Diversified Buying Group and the ECP Network, both part of Diversified Ophthalmics, with Primary Eyecare Network (PEN). ABB Optical Group acquired Diversified Ophthalmics in October 2016, as VMail reported.

 

"Combining these three powerhouses into one organization gives ABB the scale and capabilities to help independent optometrists compete more effectively and profitably in today's rapidly changing eye care marketplace," said ABB Optical Group vice president of eyewear Nan Meehan, who oversees Primary Eyecare Network. “As a trusted business partner to eyecare professionals, we continue to deliver the best services and programs to help them better serve their patients. We look forward to this merger leading to even greater success for our customers.”

 

As a result of the merger, there will be 2,400 practices combined under the PEN umbrella.

 

A division of ABB Optical since 2007, PEN is focused on supporting independent optometrists by providing favorable purchasing arrangements, business management and marketing support, educational programs for practitioners and staff, medical billing services and other support services.

 

Diversified Ophthalmics' ECP Network is a practice development organization that offers independent eye care providers tools and guidance to manage a successful practice. The Diversified Buying Group offers customers discounts and special pricing on tens of thousands of products from more than 100 vendors with the convenience of one monthly statement.

 

The merger of the three entities into one practice development organization under the PEN brand will enhance overall support for independent optometrists. Members will have access to a broad range of practice development resources, a comprehensive roster of educational events for practitioners and staff, a wide variety of valuable vendor discounts and rebates, and “white glove” account management services.

 

Members of Diversified Buying Group and the ECP Network will have immediate access to PEN’s new online educational portal, which provides eyecare practitioners and paraoptometric staff with on-demand webinars and continuing education classes, according to ABB Optical Group. Billing statements will transition to ABB Optical Group/PEN during the next several months, the company said.