In today’s fast-paced healthcare environment, achieving a proper work-life balance often seems elusive for many eye care professionals. Dr. Justin Bazan offers a compelling example of how balance, freedom, and a patient-centered practice can coexist, from building a practice and caring for patients to embracing personal adventures. This article delves into the lessons from Dr. Bazan’s career and his remarkable 2,000-mile journey on the Appalachian Trail, offering actionable insights for optometrists and other healthcare providers who want to create fulfilling, sustainable careers.

Dr. Bazan’s journey into eye care began with a strong desire to create a work-life balance while providing exceptional patient care. Graduating from SUNY College of Optometry, Dr. Bazan initially worked in a high-paced, corporate environment. This experience, however, showed him the limitations of such a model, leading him to establish a practice that prioritized both patient satisfaction and flexibility for the staff.

By structuring his practice to focus on patient-centric experiences rather than a single doctor’s availability, Dr. Bazan freed himself from constant in-office demands. He chose a name for his clinic that represented the entire team, Park Slope Eye, so that patients would trust the consistency of the service rather than one individual. This approach allows him to manage his professional and personal life on his terms, setting a precedent for other healthcare providers seeking balance.

Dr. Bazan’s approach speaks directly to the value of work-life balance in healthcare. Recent studies highlight that work-life balance is critical for healthcare providers, directly impacting job satisfaction and patient care outcomes. Research from the Mayo Clinic found that professionals with higher job satisfaction report lower levels of burnout and are more likely to provide better patient care.

For eye care professionals, prioritizing a work-life balance doesn’t just help avoid burnout; it enhances the quality of patient service. Dr. Bazan shares how the early years of establishing his practice were work-intensive. Still, he laid the groundwork for a sustainable model that now allows him the flexibility to spend time on personal pursuits.

A dedicated team is one of Dr. Bazan’s keys to maintaining his practice’s reputation and efficiency. By focusing on creating a supportive environment, he has retained his staff long-term, which is essential in a patient-centered model.

Dr. Bazan shares that he continually engages with his team, ensuring they are supported and valued. He celebrates successes and promotes a culture where everyone can learn and grow. For example, he organizes team-building activities and encourages his team members to take time off to prevent burnout, emphasizing a holistic approach to work-life balance within his clinic.

In 2023, Dr. Bazan embarked on a journey of a different kind—hiking the Appalachian Trail, which spans over 2,000 miles. This adventure provided him with more than an escape; it was an opportunity to reflect on his career, life balance, and goals. He took time off from his practice to hike the trail, using this space as an introspective journey to reset, grow, and embrace new perspectives.

Hiking the Appalachian Trail had its challenges, but it also taught Dr. Bazan valuable lessons that are surprisingly applicable to eye care.

Upon returning to his practice, Dr. Bazan found that his trail experience significantly influenced how he interacted with patients. He brought back the same patience, mindfulness, and adaptability he cultivated on the trail to his exam room. His experience led him to understand his patients’ needs more holistically, recognizing that sometimes, taking a step back can help practitioners connect more deeply and authentically with their patients.

For instance, rather than rushing through consultations, Dr. Bazan now focuses on creating a space where patients feel heard and cared for—a reflection of the mindfulness he practiced on the trail. This level of care improves patient satisfaction and contributes to a more rewarding career for the provider.

Dr. Bazan’s response reflects his humility when asked what legacy he hopes to leave behind: “I don’t want to be known for anything specific. I’ll leave that up to the people I’ve helped.” His words underscore the importance of focusing on impact over recognition, resonating with any healthcare professional dedicated to patient care.

Dr. Bazan’s story provides a powerful reminder for eye care professionals seeking inspiration: pursuing a fulfilling life inside and outside the clinic is possible. By fostering strong teams, valuing patient experiences, and making space for personal growth, you, too, can create a legacy of lasting impact in the field of eye care.