When it comes to corporate optometry, there are things that need to change. Many Corporate ODs enjoy working in this setting and it provides many benefits. The image of corporate optometry is based on myths in the industry. What you need to know is that corporate optometry is indeed a lucrative field and great for optometrists – but it also has its fair share of shortcomings.
Here are the major disadvantages of corporate optometry practices that you ought to know beforehand and the steps that must be taken in order to change things for the better. Corporate OD Alliance (CODA) is looking to help Corporate ODs change some of this disadvantages. When Corporate ODs struggle with some pain points where do they go? CODA is the organization that can help with that.
1. Late Working Hours
Many people envy corporate optometrists because these jobs usually begin from 10 am onwards. But this only means that their shift runs late into the night. Corporate optometrists have to work till 8 pm (or later) every night including most Sundays as well. Understand that many corporate opticals are not the same and there are work life balances. Joining CODA can help you negotiate lease hours and collaborate with other brand ambassadors to leverage their knowledge and connect you to the right people within the organization.
2. Non-Liable GM or RM Controlling the Work Schedules
One of the biggest problems in corporate optometry jobs is that, in most cases, a nonliable general manager (GM) or worse still, a regional manager (RM) controls the scheduling of patients and dictates the daily work practices. These people in positions of power might know how to run a business in general but they do not know the intricacies of eye care involved or the time and individual attention that each patient might require. This scheduling should be left to ODs and other personnel who directly deal with the customers and patients. Understanding the state laws can help Corporate ODs with that conversation. CODA will help bridge the gap between Professional services and local AOA state organizations.
3. Online Exams and Deeper Knowledge of Lenses
They might have spent years in optometry school, taken several courses and undergone a lot of training, but the fact is that technology is always evolving. Instead of being lured by fancy marketing techniques and buzzwords, doctors need to continuously update themselves with the latest technological advancements and analyze what’s good and what’s not.
They must develop a better understanding of the working principles of the lenses because having deeper know-how of things will enable them to make the right recommendations for patients. CODA can help with voicing the Corporate ODs voice in the industry.
4. Better Rewards For Top Performers
A primary reason why many ODs will sweat it out in corporate optometry is in hope of getting a sublease. They will put in tiring efforts and work painfully through the hectic job requirements, serving as much as 6-7 days a week to reach the top. Such doctors ought to be rewarded with better lease options because they have already proven themselves to be worthy of running one successfully. Collaborate with ODs that have multiple sublease with different brands and learn how to attract those opportunities. Employed ODs can learn about negotiating strategies and information on what other brands are paying ODs.
5. Licensing and Better Pay
The survey taken in the corporate optometry FB group, opticians wanted better pay. Licensed Dispensing Opticians in certain states want better pay. It goes without saying that licensed opticians are far more skilled at what they do and know the tricks of the trade a lot better. Therefore, their pay must be reflective of their higher qualifications. CODA is open to opticians as well to help them.
6. Training for Everyone
As mentioned above, knowledge is important to growing a corporate optical practice. Many Corporate ODs are concerned about the training and optical experience of the optical staff. Many Corporate ODs do not have control over optical staff hires. Join CODA to find solutions and approaches to help grow your own business and image of your office.
7. Bursting the Misconceptions of Optometry Practices
Corporate optometry is far more than performing a ‘glasses and contact lens exam.’ Of course, you would know this if you are an optometrist. But this is a common misconception that exists amongst the general public. Customers are often bewildered at why a particular exam or service costs beyond what they imagined.
Corporate optometry is a complex medical practice where every eye exam is customized to the patient’s needs. Therefore, customers need to realize the complexities of eye care. Join CODA to help the image of Corporate ODs in the industry and promote them to leadership positions.
8. Balancing the Payscale
You will be surprised to know that most ODs have very different salaries, even if they belong to the same corporate brand in the same town. Lease agreements vary tremendously. Do you know what your colleague across the street is earning? Try to find out because it is likely that you are leaving money on the table. Having knowledge on the pulse of the industry is enviable. CODA can provide many resources to you!
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