This article was originally published in a sponsored newsletter.
In many ways, my career began anew when I left Bascom Palmer Eye Institute as a tenured professor to open my own private ocular oncology and retina practice. This transition was buoyed by investments and focus that were critical to my ultimate success. They were easily the most important decisions I have made, and each was made very consciously.
EDUCATION AND TRAINING
First, like all physicians, I laid the groundwork for success by a commitment to attending and training at the best institutions. For me, this meant a combined BA/MD program at Johns Hopkins University and Medical School, California for residency, Milwaukee for fellowship, and then to Bascom Palmer for my academic faculty experience. While at Bascom Palmer, I obtained my MBA with a healthcare focus, completing this program 5 years before I started my private practice.
RELATIONSHIPS
During this adventure, I married and had two beautiful daughters. Family and friends (not just colleagues) have carried me through some very hard times. These relationships have been a foundational investment and allowed me to maintain my focus and passion for retina.
Then, it came time to invest in my practice. Here’s what helped make my practice successful.
ALL-STAR TEAM
When I transitioned to my own practice, I brought my team with me as a foundation, and then recruited individuals who shared my values and the ethos of our practice. This investment in my team has been integral to the success of Murray Ocular Oncology and Retina. I have invested in a team that is amazing, and I believe that their commitment should be rewarded by excellent compensation and ongoing support for performance.
TECHNOLOGY
I’ve invested in world-class technology for my patients and practice. My focus is on my patients, and that includes their ability to see their OCT and widefield imaging on every visit. This helps to engage them and have them invest in their own care.
FINANCIAL PLANNING
The more traditional investments are important for success, too. Through careful financial planning, I was able to purchase my office space (a huge plus) and pay off my house early (earning amazing equity), and I partnered with a financial advisor to structure a solid financial future for my family.
INVEST WISELY
In short, I advise new retinal physicians to invest wisely, and to focus on those investments that impact you daily – family, home, and practice. Think strategically and be willing to “bet” on yourself. We are blessed to be retina specialists, with both the means and opportunities to live our passion. I feel grateful every day for the investments I have made that have enabled me to give back to our community. NRP
