Hello everyone, Dr. Neal Troyer here, co-founder of Eyecare Republic. Greetings from the exam lane! I want to extend a warm welcome to all our new members. We are rapidly growing and are excited to invite every optometrist who shares our vision for the future of optometry.
Addressing Corporate Dominance in Optometry
So, why did we feel the need to create a doctor alliance group? My co-founder, Dr. Justin Weigel, and I have been part of many such groups and shared the common disappointment many of you might feel—that the corporate elites and conglomerates in optometry often prioritize their interests over those of individual practitioners, like you and me, in the exam rooms.
It became clear that if there wasn’t an alliance out there that truly represented our interests, we needed to build it ourselves. Eyecare Republic is for every optometrist who is in the trenches—those who long for the “good old days” when optometrists could sit down, peer-to-peer, and share best practices directly without corporate overtones.
Joining Forces for a Better Future in Optometry
Our goal is to collaborate using vendors and resources that align with our interests, supporting not just private or independent optometrists but any practitioner who feels that our profession may not be headed in the right direction. We believe in uniting our voices for a stronger, collective impact.
Reflecting on the past, nearly 20 years ago, if you asked any optometrist if they wanted their child to follow in their footsteps, the answer would invariably be yes. Unfortunately, that sentiment has dwindled, which we believe is due to the overbearing influence of the larger players in our field who are too involved in controlling the profession.
At Eyecare Republic, we are saying “no more.” We are an organization for doctors, by doctors, dedicated to ensuring our profession remains in the hands of those who practice it day in and day out. I encourage all of you to visit our website at Eyecare Republic to learn more about what we stand for.
Remember, joining is currently free, and it will always include a no-cost option. We are primarily an alliance for private and independent eye care practitioners, but anyone who desires a better future for optometry is welcome to join. Our strength is in our numbers, and together, our voices will be heard and make a difference.
