Vision Eye Institute CEO Mr James Thiedeman has reflected on the organisation’s achievements and growth this year, which has included welcoming new leaders and expanding its clinic services while continuing to deliver best-practice patient care.
Experienced ophthalmologist and longstanding doctor partner, Dr Lewis Levitz, was appointed the new national medical director of Vision Eye Institute (VEI) in June, taking over from esteemed colleague Associate Professor Tim Roberts.
The organisation recently announced a new doctor partner at its Camberwell clinic – Dr Jack Kane, an internationally recognised expert in cataract surgery. The Camberwell practice also opened a children’s eye health clinic, led by paediatric ophthalmologist Dr Christolyn Raj.
Panch Day Surgery, one of several day surgeries operated by Vision Eye Institute, reached an important milestone – providing high-quality surgical care to 10,000 patients.
“I’m proud to be part of an organisation that remains committed to delivering world-class healthcare. All that we’ve achieved this year and what we’ll accomplish in the years to come is made possible through Vision Eye Institute’s culture of respect and collaboration,” Thiedeman said.
In further growth, Vision Eye Institute North Adelaide, in partnership with Eye Surgeons SA, now offers laser eye surgery services to South Australian patients.
VEI’s ophthalmologists have also achieved milestones this year. In New South Wales, Associate Professor Michael Lawless became the first Australian surgeon to perform SMILE pro laser eye surgery – the latest generation in this keyhole vision correction technology.
Professor Gerard Sutton initiated a new Indigenous eye health program in partnership with the Sydney Eye Hospital, the Sydney Eye Hospital Foundation and the Prince of Wales Hospital.
Dr Rushmia Karim was appointed to the RANZCO Women in Ophthalmology (WIO) Speaker Bureau, which represents a network of female speakers who are experts in their field.
In 2022, VEI also introduced buy now, pay later (BNPL) through its partnership with LatitudePay to increase payment options for Vision Eye Institute patients.
Vision Eye Institute’s not-for-profit eye research foundation – the Future Vision Foundation – announced the 12 successful applicants for the first round of grant funding.
“As we reflect on a busy 2022, we would like to extend a big thank you to our optometric and GP colleagues. It has been a pleasure and a privilege to work with you to provide high-quality care for our shared patients,” Thiedeman said.
“Our clinics and day surgeries will be closing for the holidays, so staff can have a well-deserved break before jumping into 2023. We wish everyone a safe and joyous holiday season.”
View VEI’s holiday closing dates.
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