by Nathan Anderson

Shortly after graduating, Turner Altman, OD, class of 2021, opened his first practice, Altman Eye Center, cold in his hometown. In May 2023, he opened a second location in Prestonsburg, KY, his wife’s hometown.

“Opening my practice cold wasn’t easy," Altman said. "Owning my own business means that I am responsible for various hard truths like who should be hired or fired, how we gain those first 100 patients and if we are making enough money. But, starting out by myself means I can make my own decisions where I can learn and grow as a business owner." 

Because he comes from a family of entrepreneurs, Altman studied at the UAB School of Optometry with the mindset that he would open his own practice in his hometown of Pikeville, KY.  

When the time came, he was excited to open his first practice, although he was aware of the potential challenges of starting his own business, such as maintaining work-life balance and being short-staffed. His first location was scheduled to open in August 2021 but was delayed until March 2022 due to complications.

“The experience of opening my own practice was very challenging,” he said. “I often found myself juggling different positions in the clinic. However, I would not change anything that I went through to become the business owner I am today.”

Much of his success is owed to his family, especially his grandfather, who delivered more than 10,000 babies throughout his healthcare career--more than Pikeville's current population. This accomplishment established the Altman family name in Pikeville.

Altman credits his ability to provide clinical care to his optometry school education. 

“The School challenged me, offered me cutting-edge technology, made me more forward-thinking and taught me how to provide the best care I can to my patients,” he said. “The faculty was always there to help guide me, and I have to attribute much of my success to them.”

Altman plans to continue providing eye care and service to the residents of Appalachia and is on the path to continued success. The Southeast Kentucky Chamber of Commerce awarded the Altman Eye Center with the Small Business of the Year award.

The Small Business of the Year award honors a business with fewer than 20 employees that has implemented business strategies that have generated extraordinary economic success while serving as a successful example to local entrepreneurs.