Kara Foster, OD, owner of EyeCare for You in Apex, North Carolina, has always had a clear vision—not just for her patients, but for how eye care should be delivered. Since opening her practice in 2015, she’s redefined what patient-centered care looks like, particularly after making the bold decision to go insurance-free just two years in.
“At the beginning, a lot of people doubted whether I could make it work,” Dr. Foster says in a recent WO Voices podcast with Women In Optometry. “I thought, if I’m going to be working for somebody, it might as well be myself—not the insurance companies. So, I decided to try.”
Eight years later, Dr. Foster’s experiment has turned into a thriving reality. “Each year, it just gets better and better,” she explained. “It’s a great way to practice. At first, it was a bit daunting, but I was fortunate that my practice was new enough to make a clean break” and make the change to direct care in one move.
THE CASE FOR DIRECT CARE
Dr. Foster’s decision to leave insurance wasn’t purely about practicality; it was a philosophical shift. “This wasn’t just about insurance not paying well,” she says. “I wanted to challenge the health care system itself. I needed to create a fair and transparent pricing model that allowed me to give the highest quality care.”
Transparency is a hallmark of EyeCare for You. “We list all of our pricing online,” she says. “Patients appreciate that honesty. They know what to expect, and it helps build trust.”
She believes this model benefits not just patients but also the practice team. “It simplifies everything,” Dr. Foster says. “We’re able to focus on relationships with patients rather than navigating complex billing systems.”
EMPOWERING WOMEN IN PRACTICE
As a vocal advocate for women owning their practices, Dr. Foster sees entrepreneurship as a gateway to creating meaningful change. “Women often have unique perspectives and ideas that can elevate patient care,” she says. “Having your own practice gives you control to pursue those ideas.”
Dr. Foster acknowledges that taking the leap into ownership can feel intimidating. “It’s challenging, especially for women who balance family and work. But I encourage them to consider direct care—it simplifies the business side and allows for a more family-centered practice.”
Dr. Foster’s focus on creating a welcoming, personalized atmosphere has resonated deeply with patients. “I tell my team to treat patients like guests in their home,” she says. “We offer drinks, chat with them and ensure no one waits long. It’s about making the entire experience feel smooth and warm.”
This approach also informs how she builds her team. “I look for problem solvers with big hearts,” she said. “They don’t always need optical experience—just the right personality and willingness to learn.”
MODEL IS ATTAINABLE
In a town with big-box competitors and chain clinics, Dr. Foster’s practice stands out for its individualized care. “We’re not for everyone,” she admits. “But for those who value personalized service, our practice feels like a perfect fit. That’s the kind of patient who appreciates what we offer.”
Looking ahead, Dr. Foster is expanding her offerings, including dry eye treatments and nutritional counseling. “Patients are excited about options like intense pulsed laser and more holistic approaches to eye care,” she says.
Eight years in, Dr. Foster’s bold move has not only redefined her practice—it’s inspired a vision for the future of optometry. “It’s about creating a space where patients feel valued and cared for,” she says, “and empowering other women to do the same.”
