Supply Chain World Volume 10, Issue 3 Volume 10, Issue 3 | Page 64

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A clear vision

How Alcon is using technology and automation to enhance its ophthalmology offering

Aspiring to lead the way in innovative , life-changing vision and eye care products , Alcon is the global leader in eye care . Its purpose – we help people see brilliantly – remains at the heart of the company as it continuously strives to improve ophthalmology care .

Its latest developments are based around technology that will enhance its product and service offerings in the long term . Troop Aschenbeck , Global Director of Supply Chain at Alcon , joins us to discuss the company ’ s ongoing digital transformation .
“ We have a wide array of eye care offerings in the industry , with products organized into two divisions – surgical and vision care ,” Troop begins . The business provides a comprehensive line of ophthalmic surgical products , including devices for cataract , glaucoma , retinal , and refractive surgery , such as advanced technology intraocular lenses ( ATIOLs ) used for cataract surgery .
Alcon is also one of the largest manufacturers of contact lenses . Its broad portfolio includes daily disposable , reusable , and color-enhancing lenses , on top of its comprehensive ocular health offering , such as products for dry eyes , ocular allergies , and contact lens care , as well as redness relievers .
“ We play a crucial role in the ophthalmology supply chain , with the surgical side making up around more than half of our business ,” he details . “ We ’ ve been around for over 75 years now , and our machines are in over 140 countries worldwide .
“ We ’ re doing some incredible things in the cataract space at the moment ; our machines are world-class , with excellent speed and accuracy results ,” Troop continues . “ As part of our digital transformation , we are also in the process of developing a new planning tool , which will connect our machines and analyze the data . Moving towards connectivity , this planner is aimed at helping drive efficiency and accuracy throughout the cataract workflow .”
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