I know we had quite a few student from Miss. in my class. Haven't kept up with them though. The AOA publishes a journal which comes out monthly (and we used to get copies at school) that give a U.S. map showing the OD's per population. I don't remember about MS but I think it is favorable. As far as TPA laws, I would have to look it up.....let me get back to you on that one.
The national average of practices across the US says that 30%-35% of your gross should be your net. In my first year I grossed $80,000. That would put my 35% net at 28,000 per year. Not alot. BUT I worked for 2 other OD's on a half day basis 2-3 days per week (worked Tues morn at his practice and Tues afternoon at mine.....Thur and Fri was the same) I made about $500-$1000 per half day with them. So in addition to the $28,000 I netted from my practice, I made another $30,000 working outside my office. After the first 8 months I got busy enough to give up the other jobs and just concentrate on my own office.
I have no problem at all paying my student loans ($100,000 worth) AND paying off the note for my business loan (another $100,000). The school loan is about $700/month and the business loan in $1,500/month. So $2,200/month in loan payment is no fun but no problem. I now pay myself $5,000/month. The business loan payments come out of the business expenses each month. The school loans come out of my $5,000 monthly check. But remember, I have only been open for 14 months. WE are growing fast and have just secured a VA contract. (Thats good). I could go and work for other OD's and make extra money but I enjoy building my own practice much more.
It's tough but being your own boss is what I went to school for. I make 100% of the decisions....from what to charge.......to who to see.....to how much I am going to work.....NO WEEKENDS......I enjoy having a life.
