In today’s rapidly evolving landscape of eye care, generational differences have come into sharper focus. The practice of optometry, like any other healthcare profession, is shaped by the unique perspectives, challenges, and goals of different generations. This generational gap is often seen when seasoned optometrists and new graduates come together in practice. The goal is to bridge these differences and create a harmonious, future-forward approach to patient care, practice management, and leadership.

The Defocus Media podcast recently explored this topic in a special episode featuring Dr. Trevor Miranda, a seasoned optometrist with over two decades of experience, and his daughter, Nyah Miranda, a third-year optometry student at New England College of Optometry. The discussion delved into how generational perspectives influence the profession and how they can be integrated to elevate the field of optometry.

Optometry has evolved tremendously over the years. Where private practice ownership was once the ultimate goal for most graduates, today’s new optometrists focus on work-life balance, career flexibility, and diverse professional opportunities. The changes in mindset reflect the broader societal shifts in work preferences, with younger generations placing higher value on personal fulfillment and balanced living.

Dr. Trevor Miranda shared insights from his early career, where the traditional path involved opening or buying into a private practice soon after graduation. “When I graduated in 1995, everyone wanted to own a practice,” he recalls. “It was almost assumed you’d end up as an owner or at least buy into a practice after a few years as an associate.”

Fast-forward to today, and the younger generation—represented by students like Nyah Miranda—often takes a different approach. “Our generation really values work-life balance,” says Nyah Miranda. We want fulfilling careers, but we don’t want to burn out. We’re seeking workplaces that offer that balance while also providing opportunities for professional growth.”

This shift in perspective isn’t about laziness or lack of ambition; it’s about creating a sustainable career. Optometry students and young professionals are still driven and hardworking, but their focus on personal well-being reshapes the profession’s operations.

One area where both generations agree is the importance of mentorship. Having a mentor is critical to success for young optometrists entering the field. Mentorship guides clinical skills and the business side of optometry, helping young optometrists navigate the complexities of practice ownership, patient management, and leadership.

Nyah Miranda emphasized that many optometry students actively seek mentorship when they enter the workforce. “We want to know there’s a path for growth, whether it’s leadership within the clinic or the potential for ownership down the line,” she explains. “Knowing that there’s room for advancement and that the clinic is invested in our future makes a big difference.”

For seasoned optometrists like Dr. Trevor Miranda, offering mentorship is just as rewarding as it is for the mentees. “It’s about recognizing the talent in the younger generation and helping them develop their skills,” he says. “Mentorship allows us to pass on our knowledge while learning from their fresh perspectives.”

The question of ownership in optometry is another point where generational differences become apparent. Many young optometrists aren’t as eager to take on the responsibilities of running a practice. The financial burden, administrative duties, and stress associated with ownership can deter those who prioritize balance. However, for those who aspire to ownership, the challenge lies in understanding the business aspects of running a practice.

Dr. Trevor Miranda highlights the importance of transparency in helping young optometrists understand the business. “It’s not just about how much you’ll get paid as an associate,” he explains. You need to understand your revenue per patient, the cost of running a practice, and what it takes to be profitable. If you don’t know your numbers, you won’t be able to run a business successfully.”

By providing mentorship and offering insights into the business side of optometry, seasoned optometrists can help bridge this gap. “If we can show young optometrists that owning a practice can be fulfilling and manageable, we can create a pathway for the next generation of practice owners,” Dr. Trevor Miranda adds.

The relationships built between practitioners and patients are at the heart of optometry and healthcare in general. Dr. Trevor Miranda and Nyah Miranda agree that patient care is paramount and that fostering meaningful connections with patients is critical to building a lasting legacy in the profession.

Nyah Miranda sees this as a fundamental part of her future career. “I want to be known for the relationships I build with my patients,” she says. “Optometry is about more than just providing eye exams. It’s about being there for your patients year after year, helping them preserve their vision and improve their quality of life.”

For Dr. Trevor Miranda, building relationships extends beyond the patient-practitioner dynamic. “I want to be known as someone who brought energy and positivity to every interaction,” he says. “Whether it’s with patients, staff, or colleagues, creating an environment where people feel valued and appreciated is important to me.”

Leadership plays a crucial role in the success of any optometry practice. Dr. Trevor Miranda and Nyah Miranda emphasize that leadership isn’t just about holding a title—it’s about setting an example and creating a positive environment for those around you. Nyah Miranda, who has already taken on several leadership roles at NECO, credits her father for inspiring her to take on challenges and lead with kindness.

“I’ve always wanted to be a kind leader,” she says. “I think it’s important to lead by example, treat others with respect, and create an environment where people feel supported. I’ve learned that from watching my dad lead his practices.”

Dr. Trevor Miranda adds that leadership is about empowering others. “A true leader brings out the best in everyone around them,” he says. “It’s not just about running the practice or making decisions—it’s about fostering an environment where everyone feels like they’re contributing to something bigger.”

Finding mentors who can guide young optometrists through the early stages of their careers is crucial. For seasoned practitioners, embracing the fresh perspectives of the younger generation can help ensure the profession’s bright future. As Dr. Trevor Miranda sums it up, “We’re stronger together. If we can bridge the gap between generations, we can create a sustainable and fulfilling profession for everyone involved.”