What does it take to turn a shared passion into a thriving specialty practice? In this episode of Optometrists Building Empires, Ankit Patel sits down with sisters Dr. Sana Malik and Dr. Sairah Malik, co-owners of Pro-Optix Optometry & Dry Eye Center in Houston. Together, they share how choosing a specialty, investing in technology, and building a values-driven team has helped them grow a loyal patient community. From tackling the challenges of marketing in a crowded city to creating a supportive workplace culture, they open up about the realities of running a family-owned practice and what excites them most about the future of optometry.
Takeaways:
- Specialization creates differentiation. Choosing a clear specialty allows you to become a recognized leader, better serve your patients, and stand out in a crowded market.
- Technology is an investment in trust. Patients recognize when you provide advanced treatment options, which builds credibility and fuels referrals.
- Meet your patients where they are. Screening every patient for dry eye and addressing it during their primary visit increases awareness and treatment acceptance.
- Culture drives retention. Hiring carefully, using tools like personality assessments, and creating bonding traditions such as “tea time” help staff feel valued and connected.
- Marketing must be intentional. Identify your target demographic, refine your message, and avoid spreading resources too thin across every possible service.
- Partnerships expand reach. Collaborating with colleagues in optometry and even across specialties like dermatology and plastic surgery creates referral streams and credibility.
- Take risks early. Stepping into business ownership or new ventures right after graduation allows you to learn, adapt, and grow before responsibilities become heavier.
Quote of the Show:
- “It's an art to read people and know what makes them mad, what makes them happy, and where they're going to work best.”
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