Advertisement

PentaVision

Eyecare Business

Article

THE REAL DEAL

Get the facts on corporate optometry via the eye-opening results of our big research feature

By: a better work-life balance
Eyecare Business September 1, 2018

In exclusive research conducted in July, Corporate Optometry Today! invited readers to address everything from their biggest pain points and salary ranges to future-leaning trends. Here, we share that inside look by presenting COT!’s proprietary intel on the profession.

WHO’S WHO?

Survey participants told us they’ve been in practice for an average of 19 years, with 11 of those in a corporate setting. All told, 64% are independent O.D.s working at a corporate location, while 36% are employees of the company.

34 %
% of respondents attracted to corporate optometry by a better work-life balance

32 %
% of respondents attracted to corporate optometry by a consistent work schedule

WHAT’S NEXT

Here’s a glance at survey participants’ key career-path strategies—what drew corporate O.D.s into the profession and what they see as their next logical step.

IN THE NOW

Nearly half (47%) of those surveyed say their main reason for choosing corporate optometry was that it is less risky than other modes of practice. Nearly 4 out of 10 also pointed out that corporate optometry is a great first step.

Business Challenges

Asked to address the biggest in-office challenge that they are facing today, ECPs’ responses included:

“Lower insurance reimbursement to O.D.s working in a corporate office.”

“Laws that prevent corporate O.D.s from advertising their locations.”

“Getting on several of the local panels.”

“Salary plateau.”

“No-shows and patients who arrive late to their appointment.”

“Finding O.D. coverage to fill in.”

IN THE FUTURE

Supporting that steppingstone concept, more than 6 out of 10 respondents said they hope to open a private practice in the future.

SALARY SURVEY

Optometrists employed by a company earn slightly more than their independent cohorts. In fact, 81% of employees earn over $100,000, compared with 71% of independents.

What I Like…

Survey participants shared their thoughts on what they like and don’t like about their optometric career path. Here are some of those comments.

…MOST

  • “Great staff support and minimal rent.”
  • “Independence…no strings…flexibility…less stress.”
  • “Equipment provided, so I don’t have to shoulder that expense.”

…LEAST

  • “Lack of control over staff hiring and the customer experience.”
  • “Saturdays…Saturdays…Saturdays.”
  • “Expected number of patients per hour.”

What to Read Next