With OCT imaging included, my patients no longer have to choose whether this is within their budget – Dr. Michael Luu, Optometry Partner
Since opening his independent clinic and Specsavers White Oaks in London, ON, Dr. Michael Luu and his team have conducted over 7,000 eye exams, focusing on making eyecare affordable to patients and customers. As his team celebrates their first year and a half of business, Dr. Luu takes a look back on his journey so far and shares what his patients and customers are saying.
Q: What has inspired your career within the optical industry?
I’ve always been fascinated by our sense of vision and the important role it plays in the way we learn, interact, and perceive the world around us. Coupled with a passion to help others, I decided to pursue a career in optometry. Following years of studies, I graduated from the University of Waterloo School of Optometry in 2009 and spent the first nine years of my career practicing in Toronto. In 2018, my family and I made the move to the beautiful city of London.
Q: How did you know when was the right time to start your own business owner?
It had always been a longstanding goal of mine to open my own clinic, but the start-up costs, financial risks and uncertainties that come with opening a business made me pass up on several opportunities.
So when Specsavers arrived in Canada, it was an opportunity like no other. Their partnership model was already a proven success around the world, and the support team offered indispensable help every step of the way – from the initial start-up to everyday business support. Having a retail partner to manage the optical side also meant that I could focus more of my attention on the clinic and providing the care my patients need. I knew it was the right time to pursue my goal of business ownership.
Q: How has business been since opening the doors to Specsavers White Oaks Mall?
I am so pleased to say that we have already provided over 4,500 comprehensive eye exams in our first year. We have such a great team of opticians and eyecare professionals who have made it all possible and I am extremely proud of what our teamwork has accomplished so far.
Q: How has including OCT changed the way you can care for your patients?
As an optometry partner, I’m proud to be able to provide affordable eyecare for all patients. With OCT imaging included in eye exams, my patients no longer have to choose whether this important diagnostic imaging is within their budget.
Q: What are you hearing from patients and customers at your location?
I’ve had many thankful patients who were pleasantly surprised that OCT was included in their eye exam when they used to pay for it elsewhere. It gives me a great sense of fulfillment every day to be able to provide quality, accessible eyecare and to see so many grateful patients.