How can optometrists successfully expand their practices while navigating challenges like insurance reimbursements and staff retention? On this week’s episode of Optometry Building Empires, host Ankit Patel sat down with Dr. Evan Stout, co-owner of Family Vision Clinic, to discuss his journey from a single-location practice to a thriving three-location business in Mississippi. From overcoming industry challenges to investing in staff development and strategic growth, Dr. Stout shares invaluable insights for practice owners. If you're looking for expert advice on expanding your optometry practice while maintaining a people-centric approach, this episode is a must-listen!

Takeaways:

• Investing in a dedicated team, with initiatives like ParaOptometric certifications and continued education, helps in building a robust practice. This not only improves staff retention but also enhances job satisfaction and performance.
• Instead of cutting costs on staff, invest in attracting and retaining quality personnel. Offering incentives and career growth opportunities can mitigate issues related to high turnover and staff dissatisfaction.
• Active participation in professional associations like AOA and state optometric associations is crucial. These platforms offer networking opportunities and keep practitioners informed on industry changes and advocacy efforts.
• Don’t delay in taking ownership or becoming involved in the profession. Taking risks and being proactive earlier in your career can lead to significant benefits.
• Engage with professional bodies and be part of ongoing changes in the industry to ensure the profession’s growth and sustainability.
• Regularly seek feedback from patients to understand their needs better and improve services accordingly. Always prioritize patient care

Quote of the Show:

• “ If we get the right people to begin with and invest in that side of things, we're not constantly having turnover and can really invest in people.” - Evan Stout

Links:

• LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/evan-stout-o-d-2b2668b9/  
• Company website: https://visionsource-familyvisionclinic.net/  
• Email: [email protected]

Ways to Tune In:

• Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/5w1H9BBwRXvBSSkexePYxG 
• Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/optometrists-building-empires/id1762685070 
• Amazon Music: https://music.amazon.com/podcasts/689a039b-54ce-4f04-b641-66d8640d93d0 
• Podchaser: https://www.podchaser.com/podcasts/optometrists-building-empires-5812208