Dr. Ansel Johnson celebrates 35 years in practice. Photos courtesy of Dr. Johnson.
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35 Years of Care: Built With Clear Vision and Strategic Support
By Ansel Johnson, OD
Feb. 3, 2026
Business ownership is not an easy feat, and the important milestones deserve celebration. In 2025, I reached my 35th year in practice ownership.
It’s been a fulfilling career since I founded Vision Salon Eye Care Associates in Blue Island, Illinois. My work has allowed me to meld together my love of science and working with people. Through this ownership journey, I’ve grown and expanded my clinical skills. I’ve built a practice that could serve its community for generations to come.
BUILDING A BUSINESS AND A BRAND
Over the years, my practice has gained a reputation for its medical care, with a large emphasis on working with patients with diabetes. The office incorporates a nationally certified diabetes self-management program, the only one of its kind in an eye care facility in Illinois. I also developed the KNOC out Diabetes educational program. It’s a tool and resource for empowering patients with education.
The practice also serves as an externship site for several optometry schools. As such, it needs to be a place that’s attractive to both patients and students looking to join the profession. Our reputation for being at the top of our game didn’t develop by chance. This brand was carefully planned. Even as an independent practice, a brand and connection to the patients and community is a necessity.
I’m thankful for the professional supporters over the years, like the IDOC alliance, who have helped me spread our mission and grow our business.
WEBSITE SUPPORT SYSTEM
There’s great value in the marketing services available from IDOC. Since opening my practice, I’ve witnessed the evolution of marketing strategies from Yellow Book ads to being listed on the website of an insurance provider. One aspect that remains true through all the change is that branding is so important. What do people think of your office when you are not there?
And while building the brand is important, it’s almost equally essential to be sure that your audience and community know about it. I choose to manage our marketing services, and I connect directly with IDOC on our mission and how we should deliver it. IDOC manages our website and keeps it current and user-friendly. Its team helped me focus on my diabetes initiatives and emphasis on education, which is easy to see when you visit the practice website.
We discuss the details and how I want it to look. Then the IDOC team does a great job creating content. Since our original spotlight on diabetes, they have also helped me add a special section on integrating myopia management and special products like Avulux Migraine & Light Sensitivity Glasses. Anything that I think is important, they are on top of it.
When patients find us from their insurance provider, the first thing they do is look at our website. I feel good about how our practice is positioned, thanks to the support IDOC has provided.
SOCIAL MEDIA STRATEGY
Dr. Johnson (right) celebrates 35 years with his team.
IDOC assistance also keeps our social media lively. I’m very engaged in posting myself, but sometimes I just run out of time during the week. However, I know our organic posts do best and have the most hits.
To keep that personal connection, I often forward photos from our office to IDOC for them to create an engaging post. They can make it look good and post it in a timely manner. It’s quick and simple, and I’m not interrupting my own or staff’s time with patients to get it done.
If you aren’t as savvy on being involved in marketing as much as me, IDOC can help you brainstorm ideas and hold your hand through it all.
STAYING COMPETITIVE
In the south Chicagoland area, we must stay competitive with other local offices and online retailers. Our IDOC marketing strategist took the lead on our Google Ads. These efforts from the IDOC team of experts have helped us match the stats and hits of many other large corporate entities in the area. It’s powerful to have that kind of reach as an independent practitioner.
The products we use through IDOC, such as specialty computer lenses and in-house progressives, help us stay competitive, too. I like the performance and quality they deliver, which matches what I expect to provide my patients.
SUPPORT TO SUCCEED
As a member of IDOC for 15 years, I’ve watched how its team steps up and supports independent ODs. They are there for you on a regular basis—and in moments of crisis. The IDOC team was an amazing lifeline to have during the uncertainty of the COVID pandemic. Many alliances can help you get equipment discounts. IDOC sets itself apart with its support. Its team will help you stay independent and be confident in whatever you want to do.
CELEBRATING 35 YEARS OF CARE
It’s been an asset to have IDOC at our side as we pass this 35-year milestone. We’re still growing and changing, and it’s helpful to have an alliance invested in our success. As IDOC continues to evolve, too, I’m excited for what’s to come and how it will benefit my business.
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Ansel Johnson, OD, is the founder and clinical director of Vision Salon Eye Care Associates in Blue Island, Illinois. His office is home to Illinois’ first nationally certified Diabetes Self-Management Program integrated within an eye care facility. He is a CDC-certified lifestyle coach, certified in diabetes care and as an education specialist. Dr. Johnson is a respected CE presenter and national speaker. He is also actively engaged in clinical trials that support inclusive representation in research. He founded the Healthy Living With A Vision Foundation, a nonprofit addressing health disparities through community forums and targeted outreach on various health conditions. To contact him: eyedrj@visionsalon.com |
