private practice

[mupreopt]

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I am a pre-optometry student. One day, I want to open my own optometry practice. Do I need a business degree? Without a business degree, how do I know about the little details in the optometry business such as what software to use to keep records of patients, etc. or money for retirement, etc.?

 

[Dr Gump]

I am a pre-optometry student. One day, I want to open my own optometry practice. Do I need a business degree? Without a business degree, how do I know about the little details in the optometry business such as what software to use to keep records of patients, etc. or money for retirement, etc.?

Most private practice Optometrists do not have a business degree. Unfortunately, most practices can get by without any "knowledgable" business sense. These practices would do better with this knowledge and there might not be as many disgruntled Optometrists around....and probably fewer consultants feeding off us like leaches.

Having said that, I don't believe you need a business degree to be successful in Optometry, but a business minor would be an excellent addition to your academic studies.

Computer management systems, specific to Optometry, are easily found once you are in the pond with the rest of us. Your business classes will not give you this information. They will only give you basic business sense. Things like accounting and management skills.

Investing is another story. The best instructors are not even that good at it. If they were they probably wouldn't be teaching. Once you start earning you will find investment opportunities that are specific to your needs.

Good luck with your studies.

Dr Gump