A Clinician With an Entrepreneurial Spirit: The Founding of Optometric Management

Overview

Irving Bennett, the first publisher and editor of Optometric Management magazine from 1965 to 1981, played a pivotal role in revitalizing the publication and promoting business acumen among optometrists. His editorial vision and collaboration with colleagues helped establish a vital resource for optometric practice management.

Background

In the mid-1960s, Optometric Management magazine was struggling under its previous ownership. Irving Bennett, along with Mel Goldberg, Jay Gubitz, and Bob Phillips, OD, purchased the magazine and transformed it into a thriving publication. Bennett had previously advocated for the inclusion of practice and business management courses in optometric education, recognizing the need for clinicians to develop business skills. His personal experience in choosing a practice location underscored the importance of such knowledge.

Data Highlights

Irving Bennett served as publisher and editor of Optometric Management from 1965 to 1981, overseeing the magazine's growth and success over 16 years.

Key Findings

• Bennett’s editorial in the Journal of the American Optometric Association called for business management education in optometric curricula.
• He and three partners acquired the struggling Optometric Management magazine, revitalizing it.
• Collaboration with experts in related fields, such as dentistry publishing and graphic design, contributed to the magazine’s success.
• Bob Phillips, OD, managed advertising, enhancing the publication’s commercial viability.
• The magazine became an important resource for optometrists seeking practice management knowledge.
• Bennett’s entrepreneurial spirit combined clinical insight with business strategy, benefiting the profession.

Clinical Implications

Optometrists benefit from integrating business management skills into their clinical practice to improve operational success. Educational programs should consider including practice management training to prepare clinicians for real-world challenges. Resources like Optometric Management magazine provide valuable guidance for navigating the business aspects of optometry.

Conclusion

Irving Bennett’s leadership and vision established Optometric Management as a cornerstone publication that bridged clinical expertise and business acumen, supporting optometrists in practice management for decades.

References

1. Linda Bennett, OD -- A Clinician With an Entrepreneurial Spirit