Four-Eyed Professor: Need/Want fill-in help

Defocus Media Podcast Network

In this episode of the Four-Eyed Professor podcast, Dr. Chris Lievens dives into a fresh and flexible approach to optometry with special guest Dr. Osama Said, a seasoned practitioner and entrepreneur, introduces Day OD, a groundbreaking platform that bridges the gap between clinics in need of skilled optometrists and ODs looking for adaptable work opportunities. From the challenges of finding quality staff to the benefits of exploring diverse practice settings, this episode uncovers how Day OD is reshaping the landscape for both new and established optometrists. Join Dr. Lievens and Dr. Said as they explore how on-demand optometry is transforming work-life balance and advancing career opportunities in eye care.

What’s Covered :

Addressing the Demand for Flexible Staffing in Optometry

Flexible Scheduling for a Varied Experience

Transparency in Pay and Job Requirements

Improving Clinic and OD Match Quality through Ratings

Ease of Credential Verification and Malpractice Protection

Real-World Impact of Day OD on Work-Life Balance

Embracing the Future of Optometry Practice

Addressing the Demand for Flexible Staffing in Optometry

In recent years, the demand for optometrists has grown significantly, and practices often struggle to find qualified ODs to fill vacancies promptly. As Dr. Said noted, “As a clinic owner, finding full-time optometrists was always challenging. However, the demand for optometry services continues to rise.” The challenges are especially prominent in private practices, where finding part-time or temporary ODs is often critical for maintaining patient care during staff shortages.

This demand gave rise to the idea behind Day OD. Unlike traditional recruitment firms that seek full-time employees, Day OD functions as a matchmaking platform connecting clinics with ODs available for temporary work. The platform aims to provide practices and optometrists alike with a seamless way to cover patient needs, especially on short notice. Optometrists looking for work on their days off can use the platform to find opportunities, and practices needing additional help can quickly fill the gap.

Flexible Scheduling for a Varied Experience

Day OD offers ODs an opportunity to build diverse experiences by taking on roles in various types of clinics. Many optometrists, particularly recent graduates, may want to explore different work environments—whether it’s retail settings like LensCrafters or private practices—to identify what suits their career aspirations best. The platform’s flexible approach benefits optometrists by allowing them to work across different environments and gain firsthand insights into multiple practice models.

For instance, if a practitioner is interested in learning about managing a high patient load, they could work in a retail clinic. Alternatively, those inclined towards more personalized patient interaction could choose to fill in at private practices. By offering this flexibility, Day OD enables young professionals to build a robust skill set while understanding which practice model aligns with their long-term goals.

Transparency in Pay and Job Requirements

When signing up for Day OD, optometrists enter details, such as their availability, expected daily rate, and distance they’re willing to travel. As Dr. Saeed explains, “Each OD sets their rate and parameters for assignments. The clinic covers the OD’s full rate, and no administrative fees are deducted.” This transparency empowers optometrists to choose assignments based on their desired compensation and convenience, with Day OD providing a straightforward transaction.

Furthermore, each assignment includes clear job requirements, preventing surprises on the first day. Assignments are generally geared towards primary care optometry, allowing ODs to focus on routine services such as glaucoma management, red-eye treatments, and visual acuity testing without the need for specialized skills like scleral lens fittings or low vision therapy.

Improving Clinic and OD Match Quality through Ratings

One of Day OD’s standout features is the double-sided rating system, reminiscent of services like Uber, where both clinics and ODs rate each other after each assignment. Dr. Said emphasized that the platform prioritizes metrics like punctuality, efficiency, and clinic friendliness in these ratings. For clinics, ratings focus on fair staffing and reasonable patient load, aiming to ensure that neither the clinic nor the OD is overwhelmed. Clinics and ODs can then decide to accept only highly-rated matches, fostering a fair and effective environment for all parties.

Ease of Credential Verification and Malpractice Protection

To simplify onboarding, Day OD requires ODs to verify their credentials and state licenses through the platform. Once approved, practitioners can immediately begin receiving offers for assignments. The platform also simplifies tax documentation, providing a single 1099 form to optometrists who work in multiple clinics throughout the year, as Dr. Said shared.

Since malpractice liability remains an essential consideration, Day OD ensures that both clinics and ODs remain adequately covered, encouraging optometrists to confirm that their insurance applies across multiple work settings. Clinics carry their own malpractice liability, ensuring that both parties are legally protected.

Real-World Impact of Day OD on Work-Life Balance

Day OD’s potential to revolutionize work-life balance in optometry is significant. In the podcast, Dr. Saeed shared a unique anecdote about a rural optometrist who took a day off simply to relax, thanks to finding a fill-in through Day OD. Such opportunities exemplify how the platform is reshaping work dynamics, especially for those looking to avoid burnout by selectively choosing assignments.

As Dr. Osama Said described, “Day OD allows practitioners to take control of their schedules and enjoy much-needed flexibility without impacting patient care.” For new ODs and seasoned professionals alike, this kind of flexibility can prevent burnout and create a healthier work environment, which ultimately benefits both professionals and patients.

Embracing the Future of Optometry Practice

Day OD demonstrates how technology can meet the evolving needs of the optometry field, creating flexible and efficient solutions for staffing challenges. This platform represents a forward-thinking approach, ensuring that practices have access to quality care providers when needed while empowering optometrists to shape their careers according to their preferences.

For clinics and ODs alike, Day OD promises an adaptable and reliable staffing solution that respects the needs of each stakeholder. As Dr. Lievens aptly concluded, “If you’re an optometrist looking for flexibility or a clinic looking for skilled assistance, this platform can be a game-changer.”

To learn more, optometrists and clinics can visit dayod.com and explore a new way to connect and collaborate.