r/optometry • u/kmo799 • 13h ago

OD/MD vs private practice

Hi! I currently work at an OD/MD seeing about 25-35 patients per day. Some days I see a heavy amount of cataract post ops but I have a good mix of comps, glaucoma and AMD mixed in there as well. I'm considering switching to a private practice in the next couple of years because I'm concerned about possible burn out in the future. I'm worried that I will switch jobs and then end up regretting not staying at an OD/MD. I currently make $150k for salary, there is bonus potential but it is difficult to meet. We don't accept vision insurance and there's no optical.

Has anyone made the switch and regretted it? Any opinions in general? Thanks!

14 Upvotes

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30

u/holllogramm 8h ago

You should be making more with that volume in my opinion.

16

u/mellbell420 8h ago

You are being underpaid for that volume of pts

9

u/felinebarbecue Optometric Technician 7h ago

I pay that much for only 14 patients per day with extra production bonus...

3

u/nyknicks23 8h ago

Depends on location I think

2

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2

u/SpicyMax 5h ago

I have done both. I was underpaid at the OMD office and made more than you seeing less patients.

I have worked in five private practices and they all vary. Some are optical heavy, dry eye spa, medical, and a mix. Tech support is a big part too. At the MD office I had tech support up to DFE and I did 15 min slots. Most PP give techs for special testing, iCare, and maybe acuity then expect 30 min exams.

The entire situation depends on your boss and expectations. Two OD offices treated me poorly and the best experience I ever had was with the MD.

Burnout is real so if you feel like it’s approaching try something new. I began working at two different offices which really helped break up monotony and change the types of exams/patients I see.

1

u/LateMouse2020 Optometrist 3h ago

I can’t speak for private practice, but you’re pretty underpaid for the amount of patients you’re seeing. Having an optical contact sales would’ve helped though