Independent Optometry in Illinois

In recent years, there has been a trend in health care for large organizations to acquire more and more facilities and locations.  It’s becoming increasingly difficult to find an independently owned doctor’s office, pharmacy, or other health care facility, as many of them have been gobbled up by large corporations.

Optometry hasn’t been immune to this, with independently owned optometry offices becoming increasingly rare.  We are proud that our office has been able to remain independently owned.  We feel that our independence has allowed us to provide the best eye care and products for our patients.  It can be difficult, however, for an independent office to survive in today’s health care landscape.  Governmental regulation, insurance complexity, staff recruitment and training, and other issues can make it difficult to “go it alone”.

We aren’t alone, however.  Time and again, we have relied on the Illinois Optometric Association (IOA) to help us with various issues.  The IOA, based in Springfield, represents the majority of optometrists in the state of Illinois.  Their staff is accessible to answer questions from “how many continuing education hours do I need?” to “how do I renew my optometry  license?”.  The IOA also provides continuing education courses – not only for optometrists, but also for optometric staff.  And the IOA tirelessly advocates for our patients.  Largely thanks to the IOA, kindergarten patients receive comprehensive eye exams before entering school, patients can be prescribed medications by optometrists for various eye diseases and disorders, and patients have greater choice when purchasing products at optometrists’ offices. 

I have been proud to be a member of the IOA for the past 19 years.  Next month, I will assume the position of chair-elect of the IOA, and will subsequently become board chair in 2025.  Serving my profession in this way has been very rewarding, and I hope to continue to serve and fight for our profession and our patients during my term as chair.  I’m thankful for the IOA and all they have done.  And it will be an honor for me to play a small role in an organization that has helped so many.    

Until next time,

Clint Taylor, OD