Inventing Your Ideal Practice Model

Dr. Miriam Korik shares insights on how she created her ideal practice model.
Photo courtesy of Dr. Miriam Korik, who shares insights on how she created her ideal practice.

When I share my story, especially with students at SUNY College of Optometry and students from other schools, I often get the same reaction: “What in the world? Where did you get this job from?” My answer is simple: I invented it. I created a practice model that’s exactly what I needed it to be to deliver a high level of care while feeling professionally fulfilled.

The Beginning of My Career

I graduated from Salus University PCO in 2020, right in the middle of the pandemic. Like many graduates, I had planned to take a couple of months off after graduation to travel and relax. However, with the world shutting down, those plans quickly changed. Fortunately, I had passed all my board exams before the March lockdown, allowing me to apply for my New York license immediately. I received my license just a week after my virtual graduation.

With fewer applicants during the pandemic, I jumped into fill-in work, loading my schedule with shifts at various practices. I was working almost six to seven days a week, filling in at different locations. While it was a great opportunity, it also led to burnout. I realized I needed a home base.

Finding My Niche

I discovered an office owned by a doctor who also managed several practices throughout New York City. I appreciated that it was doctor-owned, as many places I had worked were run by opticians or managers who rushed patient care. I wanted to provide a more personalized experience, not just pump out refractions.

As I became friends with the doctors in this group, I noticed the owner was often running between offices. An idea struck me: why not take over when he was on vacation? I could work without a home base, which I was already accustomed to. For three years, I worked two months straight, often doing double shifts, and then took two months off to travel. I’ve been fortunate enough to visit every continent except Antarctica, experiencing incredible adventures along the way.

The Need for Change

After three years of this grueling schedule, I realized I was burning out. My job relied on my physical presence, and when I traveled, I wasn’t making any money. I wanted equity in something, a way to earn passive income while I was away. This realization shifted my mindset; I needed something more sustainable.

I had worked in various modalities—boutique offices, medical mills and pediatrics—but I found my passion in the optical boutique setting. In that environment, I could spend quality time with patients, providing personalized care and recommendations. The reviews were fantastic, and I thrived in that slower-paced atmosphere.

A New Opportunity

My employer recognized my success and offered me a profit-sharing partnership in a new office. This opportunity aligned perfectly with my desire to create a customized patient experience. However, just as we were setting up the new office, the manager of the initial optical boutique quit. This led to a new idea: a solo-run doctor office model.

Instead of 45-minute slots, we would extend appointments to an hour, allowing me to handle everything from check-in to pre-testing and sales. This model provided flexibility, enabling me to control my schedule without worrying about staff costs. I began training other doctors to shadow me, and we’re now expanding this model across multiple locations.

Embracing Flexibility

The flexibility of this new model is incredible. As a 1099 independent contractor, I can choose my hours and work in different offices as needed. If a colleague is away, I can step in and take extra shifts without needing approval from a manager. Everyone can see each other’s schedules, making it easy to coordinate.

However, this unique practice model does come with challenges. Patients are still getting used to the idea of communicating via text or email instead of phone calls. Additionally, discussing pricing can be awkward for new doctors. I often have to demonstrate how to present costs to patients confidently, which can be a learning curve.

The Benefits of My Practice Model

Despite the challenges, the benefits of this practice model are significant. I enjoy the freedom of a flexible schedule and the ability to work independently. I don’t have to rely on others, which can often lead to tension in traditional practices. The eat-what-you-kill model means that if the office is profitable, I benefit directly.

Moreover, the unlimited unpaid vacation time allows me to take extended breaks without needing to ask for permission. This flexibility is a game-changer for my work-life balance.

Advice for Future ODs

For those considering this unique style of practice, my advice is to explore various modalities. As a new graduate, you may think you know what you like, but the real world can surprise you. Try different settings—pediatrics, medical offices, optical boutiques—to discover what resonates with you.

It’s essential to enjoy what you do; otherwise, you won’t be successful. This model isn’t for everyone, especially if you have family obligations or prefer a more structured environment. However, I believe many graduates aren’t aware of this option.

If you’re considering opening a cold-start practice, remember that you don’t have to hire a full staff right away. Thinking outside the box can lead to innovative solutions that work for you.

Conclusion: Embracing the Non-Traditional

My journey has been anything but traditional. By embracing flexibility and creating a unique practice model, I found a way to balance my professional and personal life.

I hope my story inspires others to explore unconventional paths in their careers. There are opportunities out there waiting to be discovered—sometimes, you just have to invent them yourself.

Read more professional development success stories in Independent Strong

Author
  • Miriam Korik

    Miriam Korik, OD, is a primary care optometrist at Park Slope Eye Optical Boutique. She also is a functional optometrist at NYC Pupil. To contact her: [email protected]

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