Job Type
Full-time
Description
Role SummaryThis Optometrist practices in a medically focused, referral-driven model and does not generally provide routine primary eye care. The role is designed for clinicians who function as trusted medical partners-both to ophthalmologists within the organization and to referring optometrists in the community.This Optometrist manages a broad spectrum of medical eye disease and play a key role in pre- and post-operative care, delivering consistent, high-quality clinical judgment that referring physicians can rely on with confidence.Clinical ScopeThe position involves comprehensive medical eye care, including but not limited to:- Pre-operative evaluation and counseling for cataract and refractive surgery
- Post-operative management of surgical patients
- Diagnosis and management of glaucoma, including longitudinal care and escalation when appropriate
- Management of ocular surface disease, including dry eye and inflammatory conditions
- Evaluation and treatment of common medical eye conditions encountered in a specialty practice setting
Clinical decision-making is emphasized, with an expectation of appropriate escalation, collaboration, and documentation that supports seamless shared care.
Professional ExpectationsOptometrists in this role are expected to:- Demonstrate strong training and sound clinical judgment
- Communicate effectively with patients, surgeons, and referring providers
- Function independently while collaborating closely within a multidisciplinary care team
- Uphold high standards of professionalism, ethics, and patient advocacy
Referring physicians should feel confident that patients shared into this model receive thoughtful, high-quality care consistent with specialty practice standards.
Community Engagement & Professional PresenceThis role extends beyond the clinic. Successful candidates actively build and maintain a strong professional reputation through:- Engagement with referring optometrists and healthcare professionals
- Participation in community and professional meetings
- Leadership involvement in local or regional professional organizations
- Speaking engagements, education, or clinical outreach initiatives when appropriate
The optometrist serves as both a clinician and an ambassador for collaborative care within the region.
Ideal Candidate ProfileThe ideal optometrist for this position:- Is medically focused and comfortable managing complex eye disease
- Values collaboration and long-term professional relationships
- Is respected by peers for judgment, communication, and integrity
- Seeks a role centered on medical care, not retail or primary eye care
- Is motivated to contribute to the growth, reputation, and clinical excellence of the practice
Qualifications- Doctor of Optometry (OD) degree from an accredited institution and current, unrestricted optometry license (or eligibility for licensure) in the state of Tennessee.
- Proficiency in comprehensive eye examinations, refraction, contact lens fitting, and management of common ocular conditions and diseases.
- Experience or strong interest in medical optometry and co-management of surgical cases (e.g., cataract, refractive, glaucoma, retina) is highly preferred.
- Strong patient communication skills, with the ability to explain diagnoses, treatment plans, and preventive care in clear, accessible language.
- Comfort using electronic health records and diagnostic technologies (e.g., OCT, visual fields, fundus photography, topography).
- Demonstrated ability to work collaboratively within a multidisciplinary clinical team and with referring community providers.
- Commitment to evidence-based clinical practice, continuous learning, and participation in continuing education.
- Ability to work on-site full-time in Nashville, TN, with flexibility to support patient scheduling needs as required by the practice.
- Prior experience in a medical or surgical eye care setting is a plus, but new graduates with strong clinical training are encouraged to apply.
Why Join Us?Collaborative Clinical SettingYou will work in a supportive, upbeat practice environment alongside an ophthalmologist, another OD, technicians, scribes, and experienced support staff.
Advanced TechnologyOur offices are equipped with the tools needed to practice full-scope medical optometry, including OCT, visual field, topography, and other diagnostic equipment.
Efficient Patient FlowOur ODs typically see around 30 patients per day, with the support of a scribe and technician to help keep the clinic running smoothly.
Competitive Compensation and BenefitsWe offer a competitive salary along with a full-time benefits package, including:
- Health insurance
- Retirement savings match
- Paid time off
- Continuing education support
- Professional membership dues reimbursement
This is an excellent opportunity for an Optometrist who wants to grow in a medically oriented practice while maintaining a balanced schedule and working with a strong clinical team.
