After more than 20 years of independent practice in Atlanta, Neil Speer, OD, found a whole new pace of practice when he became an affiliated OD in a new Walmart location in Evergreen, Colo. “I have practiced in locations where we schedule patients every 15minutes. And if you get behind, you’re behind all day,” he says.
Now, he leaves enough time in the patient schedule to spend more time on patient education. For example, he wants to show each patient the digital images he has captured. “I show the patient what I’m looking at and what I’m looking for. I feel that an educated patient is a better patient in terms of compliance and following my recommendations.” By spending the time asking patients about their lifestyles and interests, he says he can craft the most appropriate prescription and visual solution for each patient.
The six-year-old practice is still growing. Dr. Speer has marketed to the community via newspaper and email marketing campaigns. He has participated in a health lecture series at a country club, attended Chamber of Commerce events and supports local churches, temples and youth sports teams. The Walmart connection also serves him well. “This is a small community. People can’t help but come to Walmart, whether they need shoes or an ice chest.” His goal, therefore, is to make sure that the customers and the associates know his office is there.
For this phase of his career, Dr. Speer says it’s just right. “The Atlanta practice was very stressful. There were a lot of headaches in administering a practice. Here, other than some marketing, it’s really all about patient care.”
