Eye.Talk.Tech. | Episode #19 - Will AI Replace Your Staff

SummaryIn this episode, Cory Pinegar, Founder & CEO of TEEM, explores how artificial intelligence is reshaping optometry practices - not by replacing people, but by empowering them. He discusses the difference between AI and virtual assistants, how practices can leverage AI to improve efficiency and profitability, and the key questions every practice owner should ask before adopting new AI tools.Key TakeawaysAI is a tool to empower staff - not replace them.How AI can improve practice efficiency and increase revenue.Practical questions every practice owner should ask before implementing AI.Guest BioCory Pinegar is the Founder & CEO of TEEM, a leading provider of healthcare virtual assistance solutions for optometry practices. With over eight years in healthcare, he was an early employee at Weave and later built Reach, one of the largest dental-specific call centers in the U.S. Today, he leads thousands of remote team members across more than 10 countries, helping practices improve efficiency through hybrid staffing and AI-enabled solutions. Cory also serves on the boards of the Parkinson's Foundation and Verrific.Chapters02:38 The Importance of Good Human Guidance for AI Effectiveness05:36 Why Human Connection Still Matters09:12 The Rapid Evolution of AI Models13:19 Questions Every Practice Owner Should Ask Before Adopting AI19:07 Human Touch vs. Artificial Intelligence23:30 How to Begin Integrating AI into Your PracticeFurther Resources🔗 Learn more about TEEM → https://www.hireteem.com/ods-on-facebook/🌐 Connect with Cory →https://www.linkedin.com/company/hireteem/orhttps://www.linkedin.com/in/cory-pinegar/🎧 Listen on Spotify → 🔔 Subscribe for more Eye.Talk.Tech. → https://www.youtube.com/@Fluorescenehttps://www.youtube.com/@Fluorescene#EyeTalkTech #ODsonTechnology #ODsOnFacebook #OptometryInnovation #ArtificialIntelligence #AI #AIinOptometry #Optometry #PracticeManagement #HealthcareTechnology #VirtualAssistants #RemoteTeams #PracticeEfficiency #DigitalHealth #FluoresceneGroup #TEEMAbout the podcastEye.Talk.Tech. is an eye tech education podcast series that brings subject matter experts and real conversations to the intersection of eye care and technology. Each episode explores innovations and future trends that matter to eye care professionals worldwide.Hosted by Dr. Griffin Christenson, OD, MS CS – Interactive Intelligence, Eye.Talk.Tech. is the flagship videocast of ODs on Technology—a public platform dedicated to eye care technology, innovation, research, and emerging trends.Visit us at www.odsontechnology.comWho are weWe're a collective of optometrists, educators, researchers, scientists, public health leaders, technology innovators, and eye care professionals working behind the scenes. Most of us weren't formally taught the role of technology in clinical care or practice management. Some returned to school to expand their technical expertise, while others are self-taught innovators. We all share one belief:Technology is fundamentally transforming eye care, and our profession should be leading - not following—that transformation.Eye.Talk.Tech. exists to bring practical, relevant technology education to the eye care community - in our own language, on our own terms.DisclaimerThis episode is for informational purposes only and is not intended as medical or legal advice. Always consult qualified professionals before implementing clinical or business decisions. Views expressed by guests are their own and do not necessarily reflect those of the host, FluoreSCENE Group, or its partners. Discussion of products, technologies, or services does not constitute an endorsement. AI technologies and digital health tools continue to evolve, and viewers should evaluate any solution carefully before integrating it into practice.