Practical insights to help young ophthalmologists opening their own private practice
Embarking on the path of opening my own practice as a young ophthalmologist was a transformative experience, filled with both challenges and moments of profound growth. Reflecting on my journey establishing Warrenville EyeCare & LASIK, I’ve gleaned valuable insights that have shaped the trajectory of my career and the ethos of our practice. Sharing these “lessons learned” became the cornerstone in forming Real World Ophthalmology (RWO), an educational resource to help young ophthalmologists succeed in early practice.
In this first article in Ophthalmology Management’s new Real World Ophthalmology Corner column, I will share some of those insights and answer one of the most common questions I have been asked: How do I succeed when starting a practice?
ESTABLISHING PERSONAL CONNECTIONS
In the nascent stages of Warrenville EyeCare & LASIK, I leaned on personal connections and a sprinkle of creativity to forge meaningful relationships within the local health-care community.
My initial marketing approach consisted of bringing homemade cookies to introduce myself. I sought to add a personal touch to my outreach efforts. This simple gesture not only left a lasting impression but also served as a catalyst for building trust and rapport, laying a solid foundation for patient referrals and collaborative partnerships.
As the practice grew, I found myself attending community events, participating in health fairs and engaging with local organizations, further cementing our presence in the community. As physicians we do not just take care of the community — we are part of it, and patients appreciate knowing our care extends beyond the clinic.
PRIORITIZING PATIENT-CENTERED CARE
At the heart of my practice philosophy lies an unwavering commitment to patient-centered care. Dr. William Nijm, my father and inspiring role model as a solo internist for more than 35 years, infamously said, “Put the patient first, and everything else will follow.”
From the moment patients walk through our doors, we strive to create a welcoming and personalized experience. For example, greeting patients by name and taking the time to listen to their concerns are integral aspects of our approach. We have made education a cornerstone, from 3D models to explain thyroid eye disease to vision simulators for premium IOLs. We have also included educational seminars, handouts and online resources to empower and enhance the patients’ experience.
EMBRACING INNOVATION AND ADVOCACY
Ophthalmology is a rapidly evolving field, so embracing innovation and advocacy are paramount. Keeping abreast of the latest advancements through meetings like RWO, AAO and ASCRS and reading columns like this assists us in delivering cutting edge care. It has helped me implement new surgical techniques and incorporate new modalities such as AI into my practice.
Also, my commitment to advocating for patient rights and shaping health-care policies has led to meaningful changes on both state and national levels. One initiative involved lobbying with AAO at Mid-Year Forum for increased funding for vision research for veterans, underscoring our dedication to advancing the field and improving patient outcomes.
CONCLUSION
Launching my practice has been a deeply enriching journey, characterized by a steadfast commitment to excellence, compassion and innovation. By fostering personal connections, prioritizing patient-centered care and embracing innovation and advocacy, I have not only established but also forged lasting bonds within my community and beyond. Aspiring young ophthalmologists embarking on a similar path can take solace in knowing that with dedication, perseverance and a genuine passion for patient care, the possibilities for success are boundless.
As I navigate through the challenges and triumphs of entrepreneurship, I am dedicated to sharing my experiences and insights to support young ophthalmologists facing similar hurdles. Stay tuned for more first-hand perspectives and practical advice on building a successful practice and navigating challenges in early career. OM
This column is produced in partnership with Real World Ophthalmology, an educational resource created by Dr. Lisa Nijm. For more information, visit RealWorldOphthalmology.com. Join them at their next virtual meeting, “Tell Me Your Secrets,” on April 27, 2024.
