Hiring an optometrist isn't like hiring a receptionist. One bad hire costs you patients, reputation, and your time. I've made that mistake. Here's how to avoid it.
Licensing & Insurance Questions
First thing: verify their license is current in your state. Don't take their word. Check the state board website yourself. Some states require a separate therapeutic license for prescribing certain drugs. Make sure they have it. Then call your malpractice carrier. Ask if their policy covers this person's specific procedures. Some policies exclude certain laser or minor surgical procedures. You don't want a surprise when a claim hits.
Experience & References Questions
Ask for three references from the last two jobs. Call every single one. Ask the same three questions: did they show up on time, how did they handle a difficult patient, and would you hire them again. Pay attention to hesitation. For experience, don't count years. Count patient volume. Someone who saw 20 patients a day for one year knows more than someone who saw 5 a day for five years. Ask about specific equipment they've used. If you have a Zeiss OCT, don't hire someone who's only used a Topcon.
Pricing & Timeline Questions
Expect to pay 20-30% of their production as base compensation. Anything lower and you'll get someone desperate or unqualified. Timeline wise, a proper search takes 6-8 weeks from posting to start date. Faster than that means you're skipping steps. Slower means you're being too picky. Factor in a 90-day probation period. Don't negotiate it away. You need an out if they're not working out.
Contract Questions
Get everything in writing. Non-compete clauses are standard but should be reasonable — 5-10 miles, 1-2 years. Anything broader is a red flag. Include a clear termination clause. 30 days notice from either side is fair. Make sure the contract spells out who owns patient records if they leave. Some try to take the list with them. That's your data. Put it in black and white. Have a lawyer look it over before you sign. Spending $500 now saves $5,000 later.
Compare local optometrists and their ratings on RatingsNearMe before you make your final offer.