What does it take to successfully manage and expand multiple optometry practices while staying true to patient care? On this week’s episode of Optometrists Building Empires, host Ankit Patel sits down with Dr. Jeff Neighbors, an experienced optometrist, practice owner, and president of Practice Consultants. Dr. Neighbors shares his journey from working as an associate in a corporate setting to owning multiple practices, offering invaluable insights on leadership, staffing, financial planning, and the importance of professional involvement. Whether you're a practice owner looking to scale or a new optometrist planning your career path, this episode is packed with practical advice and inspiration.

Takeaways:

• The core of a successful practice lies in genuine care for patients. Prioritize patient needs and build strong, long-lasting relationships. This dedication translates into patient loyalty, which is crucial for sustained growth.
• Adequate staffing is a significant challenge. Ensure you hire staff who mirror your passion for patient care. Invest in training to align the quality of care across multiple locations. Consistency in patient experience is vital.
• Expand wisely and gradually. Focus on stabilizing and standardizing one location before moving to the next. Avoid the pitfalls of overexpansion by ensuring each step is well-managed and meets your practice's standards.
• Never undervalue your services. Even if managed care plans push for lower fees, remember the extensive training and expertise that underpin your practice. Maintain a strong stance on the value you provide.
• Engage actively with local and national optometric associations. These platforms offer legislative influence and create opportunities to network with peers, share knowledge, and gain support.
• Play an active role in mentoring new optometrists. Ensuring they understand the history of the profession and preparing them for future challenges will keep the field robust and evolving.

Quote of the Show:

• “ That's a huge piece of a successful practice. Understanding your value and what you bring to patient care.” - Jeffrey Neighbors

Links:

• LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jeffrey-neighbors-07292b89/   
• Practice website: https://metro-eyecare.com/  
• Practice consultants: https://practiceconsultants.com/  
• 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