EP24: Kelly O' Brien on Managing an Independent Optical Practice in a Rural Setting: Challenges, Partnership, Growth, and Making a Difference in the Community

She drove patients to the hospital by herself three times because there was no other choice - here's what a rural independent practice co-owner does to go above and beyond patient care. 

 

Kelly O’Brien is the co-owner of Bridge Eye Care, a trusted independent practice in Murray Bridge. Her journey began with a cadet scholarship from OPSM, and she worked for them in various locations for seven years. Driven by her ambition to have her own family and a balanced lifestyle, Kelly joined Bridge Eye Care as an optometrist. Over time, she and her close friend Kristin were given the opportunity to take ownership and grow the practice. 

 

In this episode, Michael Nasser and Kelly O'Brien discuss the realities of owning an independent practice in rural settings. Kelly candidly shares how they built a lifestyle business, navigated business partnerships, overcame staff challenges, and touched on the importance of mental health awareness & support in the optical industry.  

 

Key Topics with Timestamps: 

2:02 - Kelly O'Brien's background before co-owning an independent optometry practice 

5:55 - Transitioning from corporate optometry to independent practice 

9:52 - Navigating the business side of independent practice 

12:39 - Hiring the right staff in your optometry practice 

15:49 - Balancing business partnerships & maintaining relationships 

22:14 - Leadership and staff management in independent optometry 

24:51 - Challenges of being a woman in leadership 

29:58 - Effective strategies in building a loyal patient base 

34:09 - Running an optometry practice in a rural setting 

36:21 - Mental health challenges in optometry practice 

40:55 - The most rewarding experience working in rural optometry 

44:04 - Going the extra mile for patient care 

50:14 - Staying motivated through challenges 

53:18 - The dynamics of having an optometrist partner 

56:17 - Advice for new optometrist and future practice owner  

58:47 - Marriage through the lens of an optometrist 

 

All the other links and resources mentioned in this episode can be found at
https://www.thefocusedview.com.au/

 

Episode Suggestions:  

EP23: Belinda Musitano on Strategic Growth,Patient Care & Running a Successful Practice 

 

Connect with Kelly O’Brien: 

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/kelly-o-brien-984311100/ 

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Learn More About Us: 

Website: https://www.thefocusedview.com.au/ 

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LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/showcase/the-focused-view 

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thefocusedview/ 

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