Frequently Asked Questions
Everything you need to know about ODpal's patient communication platform for optometry practices.
About ODpal
What is ODpal?
ODpal is a modern patient communication platform built exclusively for independent optometry practices. It centralizes text, email, and in-app messaging into one hub — alongside scheduling, recalls, forms, and a co-branded patient mobile app.
Is ODpal only for optometry practices?
Yes. ODpal is purpose-built for independent optometry practices. This focus allows the platform to support optometry-specific workflows like annual exam recalls, eyewear order tracking, contact lens renewals, and specialty care follow-ups. Learn why ODpal was built for optometry.
What makes ODpal different from other healthcare communication platforms?
Unlike generic healthcare tools designed for hospitals and large medical systems, ODpal is designed around how optometry practices actually operate. It includes a co-branded patient mobile app, optometry-specific workflows, and an all-inclusive pricing model with no per-message fees.
Does ODpal replace my practice management system?
No. ODpal is a communication platform that works alongside your existing practice management system. It centralizes patient communication into one hub so your team can focus on care instead of juggling multiple tools.
How long does it take to set up ODpal?
ODpal is designed for a smooth onboarding process. During your demo, we'll map the platform to your specific workflows and patient volume. Most practices are up and running quickly with guided implementation support.
How does ODpal help independent practices compete with corporate optical chains?
ODpal gives independent practices the same digital convenience that large corporate chains offer — mobile app access, online scheduling, automated recalls — while preserving the personal relationships and trust that define independent optometry.
Pricing & Plans
How much does ODpal cost?
ODpal's Essential plan starts at $399/month and includes the full platform. Pricing is based on patient volume, not feature access, so smaller practices get everything without paying for capacity they don't need. See all plans and pricing details.
Are there per-text or per-message fees?
No. ODpal does not charge per-text, per-email, or per-message fees. All communication — SMS, email, in-app chat, and push notifications — is included in your monthly plan.
Is the co-branded mobile app included in all plans?
Yes. Every ODpal plan includes a fully co-branded patient mobile app with your practice name, logo, and colors. There is no additional cost for the app.
What's the difference between the Essential, Growth, and Pro plans?
All three plans include the full ODpal platform. The difference is patient volume capacity. Essential is for smaller practices, Growth supports higher daily volume with priority onboarding, and Pro offers custom pricing with advanced integrations and dedicated support. Compare plans.
Can I switch plans if my practice grows?
Yes. You can upgrade your ODpal plan at any time as your patient volume increases. Since all plans include the same features, upgrading simply expands your capacity — no migration or feature unlock process needed.
Mobile App
What can patients do in the ODpal mobile app?
Patients can book appointments, complete intake forms, view prescriptions, check eyewear and contact lens order status, message your practice, and receive push notifications — all from one app branded with your practice identity. Learn more about the mobile app.
Is the app branded with my practice name and logo?
Yes. The ODpal app is fully co-branded with your practice name, logo, and colors. Patients see your brand every time they open the app, reinforcing trust and loyalty.
Why is a mobile app better than just texting patients?
Text and email are helpful but fragmented — messages get lost, links expire, and there's no central place for patients to find their information. A mobile app creates a persistent, organized hub where patients can access everything related to their eye care. See why a mobile app matters.
Can the app send push notifications?
Yes. ODpal uses push notifications for appointment reminders, order status updates, recall messages, and engagement campaigns. Push notifications have significantly higher open rates than email or SMS.
Is the app available on both iPhone and Android?
Yes. The ODpal patient app is available for download on both iOS and Android. Once installed, it becomes a direct, always-available communication channel between your practice and your patients.
Features & Setup
What features are included with ODpal?
Every plan includes the co-branded patient mobile app, unified inbox (text, email, in-app chat), appointment scheduling and reminders, digital intake forms, exam readiness dashboard, automated recalls, patient engagement campaigns, and a centralized communication dashboard. See all features.
How does the unified inbox work?
The unified inbox brings all patient communication — text messages, emails, and in-app chat — into one searchable dashboard. Every message is linked to the patient record, so your team can see the full communication history without switching between tools.
Does ODpal support digital intake forms?
Yes. ODpal includes a custom form builder with conditional logic, specialty care intakes for dry eye, myopia, and contacts, and both pre-visit and post-visit forms. Forms are tracked for completion with automatic reminders.
How do automated recalls work?
ODpal automates annual exam recalls, product-based recalls for contacts and eyewear, and multi-touch recall sequences. Each recall includes live booking links so patients can schedule directly.
Does ODpal use AI?
Yes. ODpal includes AI-assisted scheduling agents for automated booking, intelligent appointment routing, symptom-based scheduling guidance, and after-hours support — reducing manual phone handling for your front desk. Learn more about ODpal features.
Can ODpal handle specialty care like dry eye or myopia management?
Yes. ODpal supports specialty care workflows including custom intake forms for dry eye and myopia, follow-up communication sequences, and specialty lens coordination. The platform adapts to how your practice operates.
Still have questions?
Book a demo and we'll walk through how ODpal fits your practice.