Reading time: 2:41
Why did I decide to write a blog? I have always valued sharing experiences and clinical pearls with fellow optometrists. I have learned so much from these casual conversations. Some information has had major impacts on my practice, but many ideas were small simple things that made my life a little easier. Why not share what I have learned? I wanted to create a forum for other optometrists to share some of the lessons they have learned. There are many blogs and websites that do similar things, but I think my approach is a little different.
If you are looking for blogs that keep you informed of the latest in technological advances or how to increase profits and the bottom line, then this is not for you. That is not my forte. My expertise is in personal observations that improve care and allow you to make better connections with your staff and patients. I will try not to bore you and I will honor your time by keeping all the blogs short. In fact, I will post the reading time at the beginning so you know how much time you will spend.
With more than forty years in practice, I can still say that I love what I do. I have practiced in many different settings. I have learned something from every place I have worked. Some lessons were positive, but some fall into the category of “things I don’t ever want to do”. Some of those insights were easy, but others acquired after considerable struggles and pain. I figured why not spare others that pain if I can? My inspiration is in part from my practice, but also from my experiences and observations in daily encounters with people.
Those forty plus years have seen some major changes in optometry. So many changes in fact, that every day I feel like a magician trying to balance new technology with classic values. Daily, I juggle responding to the increasing demands of insurances and governmental regulations against trying to preserve the best parts of optometry.
I hope this blog will be a forum to exchange ideas, encourage growth and challenge the status quo. I have always tackled things from a different perspective than many of my peers. Neither way is better, just different. I want to present you food for thought. I want to challenge doctors to find a way to incorporate new (or old) ideas into their practices. I want to encourage doctors to create a practice that they love and that fulfills them. And I want to continue learning from you too.
Education and communication have always been important to me. Not only do I love creating “a-ha” moments for my patients, but I realize first hand that taking a few moments to talk with my patients has forged a valuable connection between us. That connection builds loyalty and promotes practice growth. It also increases patient compliance and ensures a better clinical result. Best of all, that connection has allowed me to practice in a way that I find fulfilling. I’m not saying that it has all been sunshine and roses. I have lost my way many times, but somehow always found my way back.
A lot of the changes in health care have been good, but many have been negative. This is a trend seen in business as well. Yet, some large corporations are also bucking the system by challenging the rules and showing us that change is possible. I am encouraged by that wherever I see it. If they can do it on such a large scale, then we can do it in our individual practices.
Putting out a positive message and caring about our staff and patients is not only possible, but also can make a difference in the world. We can either be part of the problem or we can be an example of a solution. Small changes can and do make a difference.
Please leave your comments below. I look forward to hearing about your personal experiences. Connect with us on social media for additional ideas on changes that can help you and your practice grow. Visit our Resources section for free tools to help you with your practice.