Where did you attend optometry school? Do you have any school advice/study tips?

• SCCO.
• Study tips: form a study group and learn from each other. We each have strengths in different areas.

Which one thing that you learned in optometry school do you use the most in your daily practice?

• A good case history will help you provide the best and appropriate care for your patients.

Did you do a residency? If yes, what area and would you recommend it to others?

• I did not.

Where do you practice now? Pros & cons? How did you end up there/make the choice to be there?

• Brea and Norwalk, California. Job opportunity right after graduation.

What state do you practice in? What are the benefits and drawbacks of practicing there? 

• Ca.
• Drawback: lots of ODs
• Benefits: even more patients

Do you have a specific patient demographic that dominates your area and if so, how have you adapted your practice to serve them better?

• In Norwalk, I have a fair amount of Spanish speaking patients. Even though I speak Spanish, I make sure I have Spanish speaking staff so the patients feel comfortable.

Do you own your own practice? How did you join/open it? How long have you been there?

• I do own. I bought my first practice in Norwalk 29 years ago; one year after graduation. My second practice I opened cold in Brea to have an office near my home.

What was your most valuable resource when getting involved in your initial private practice setting?

• Originally, my colleagues at my local optometric society. Now, Vision Source.

What outside services do you use to help manage/elevate your practice (patient recall services, social media, buy-in groups, CPA, financial advisor, lawyer, etc.)?

• I have a CPA, attorney, financial advisor, as well as Vision Source. .

What is one thing you wish you knew before you started practicing?

• To utilize the many resources available in our profession to assist in our success. You don’t have to do it alone. There are many colleagues and organizations available to help you succeed.

Do you have more than one location? What factors went into that decision? How soon after your first location was open did you open your subsequent locations?

• I do have more than one. I opened the second 16 years after the first. An OD should give it a lot of thought. Two offices doesn’t mean twice the income, but it can provide twice the headaches. However, with the right people and infrastructure, it can be a wonderful thing.

What tips do you have for hiring/training staff and how do you motivate them?

• Staff will be your greatest asset, and your greatest stress. Staff can make or break a practice. Good staff will make practicing optometry fun. Treat them like family and let them know they’re appreciated. Give them positive feedback and reward them for their efforts.

What have you done to set yourself apart from other eye care professionals near you?

• Tried to provide the best eye care that I could using the most advanced technology. Patients appreciate that. And hire good staff.

Please add any additional thoughts or advice for our members.​

• Optometry is an incredible profession. You get to make a very good living while helping improve the lives of others. Don’t hesitate to reach out to me and other colleagues/mentors with any questions. We are always happy to help.

If you have any further questions for Dr. John Larcabal, his email is: [email protected]