Seeing Clearly, Together: A Thank You to My Ophthalmology Team
We often say that our eyes are the windows to the world, but in my clinic and operating room, I’m constantly reminded that it takes a team to keep those windows clear.
As an ophthalmologist, I talk a lot about eye health—regular eye exams, wearing sunglasses, taking breaks from screens, staying hydrated, eating a balanced diet. These habits truly matter. But behind every successful visit, every surgery, and every moment of reassurance a patient receives, there is an entire group of people working quietly and tirelessly to make it all possible. This blog is not about me. It’s about us.
Every day, our administrative staff and front desk team are the first voices and faces our patients encounter. They answer calls with patience, navigate schedules that look like puzzles, and greet people who may be anxious, in pain, or simply overwhelmed by the healthcare system. Their kindness often sets the tone for the entire visit, long before I walk into the exam room. Our technicians move seamlessly between rooms, gathering histories, checking vision, performing tests, and keeping things flowing when the day feels impossibly full. They are the bridge between patients’ concerns and my clinical decisions, and they carry an enormous share of the emotional labor—listening, explaining, and reassuring.
Our managers keep everything from equipment to staffing to clinic flow on track, often behind the scenes. They solve problems most people never even see, ensuring that we can keep caring for patients when the unexpected happens—which, in medicine, is often. My colleagues and trainees—fellow ophthalmologists, residents, and students—bring fresh eyes, sharp questions, and shared commitment to doing what is best for each patient. Teaching and learning alongside them keeps me grounded and hopeful about the future of our field.
To my administrative staff, front desk staff, technicians, managers, colleagues, and trainees: thank you. You are the reason we can offer not just medical care, but genuine care. Healthy eyes lead to a brighter, clearer future—but it’s our teamwork that makes that future possible.
