Exam lane

Definition

One equipped examination room, the unit of an optometry practice's capacity and of the capex it needs.

Why It Matters

Count the lanes and read what each holds: a phoropter, a slit lamp, a chair and stand, and the shared imaging (a retinal camera, an OCT) that the medical eye care the guide prices depends on. Capacity is lanes times doctor-hours, so a one-doctor, three-lane practice has room a two-lane one does not, and the equipment's age decides the capex the financeability notes tell you to net out of earnings. Ask for the equipment list with purchase dates and any leases, since a lane on a lease is a payment the seller's books may show as rent.