When your schedule is full and your patients are counting on you, being short on doctors can cause major disruptions. Whether it’s vacation coverage, unexpected absences, or peak-season demand, many practices struggle to keep up without overloading their team.
That’s where fill-in optometrists come in. Hiring fill-ins doesn’t just keep your practice running—it also helps you stay flexible, maintain revenue, and protect staff from burnout. Here’s how to do it without missing a beat.
1. Anticipate Your Coverage Needs
Don’t wait until you’re already short-staffed. Review your calendar for upcoming vacations, CE events, or busy seasons and plan coverage in advance. Even a few weeks of lead time can mean the difference between scrambling and running smoothly.
With OD PRN, you can post openings for specific dates so fill-in ODs know exactly when you’ll need them.
2. Post Clear Job Details
Fill-in optometrists want to know what they’re walking into. When creating a posting, be clear about:
- Patient volume expectations
- Hours and scheduling
- Equipment and EHR systems used
- Specific types of exams or care provided
This helps you attract the right fit and ensures the OD can step in seamlessly.
3. Use a Dedicated Optometry Platform
General job boards aren’t built for temporary or short-term needs. That’s why many practices turn to OD PRN—a platform built specifically for optometry. Instead of sorting through unrelated applicants, you connect directly with ODs who are looking for fill-in opportunities.
4. Streamline the Process
Time is critical when you need coverage. Assign a staff member to handle communications and use virtual interviews when possible. OD PRN makes this easier by providing detailed OD profiles up front, so you can skip unnecessary back-and-forth.
5. Keep Operations Steady
The biggest benefit of using fill-in optometrists is continuity. Your patients are cared for, your revenue keeps flowing, and your staff isn’t stretched thin. By planning ahead and using OD PRN to connect with qualified ODs, you can handle gaps in coverage without slowing down.
Final Thoughts
Hiring full-time optometrists isn’t always the answer—sometimes what you really need is short-term support. By leveraging fill-in ODs, your practice can stay flexible, profitable, and patient-focused.
Ready to simplify your coverage planning? Create your free OD PRN account today and start connecting with fill-in optometrists in your area.
