EyeOn Patients - Illinois College of Optometry

Eye On Campus
The Illinois Eye Institute
continues to expand its horizons
Growth Phase
Take a look around the Illinois Eye Institute. That’s what we’re doing in this issue of ICO
Matters. As you’ll see, the physical space has changed, with not only a new snack stop and
hospitality/information desk, but a completely remodeled Eyewear Center, named in honor
of Robert L. Fait, OD ’68.
Other changes have to do with keeping up with the latest technology, whether that means
implementing an Electronic Medical Records system or purchasing advanced imaging
equipment. IEI has also adopted an inventive internal marketing program to ensure that
patient relations are always the highest priority.
But more than a time of change at IEI, it’s a time of growth. Charitable service initiatives
have blossomed since 2001, and patient visits have jumped up by thousands per year. As a
result, IEI is increasingly a destination for international visitors, documentary makers and
optometrists taking continuing education courses.
There’s a lot going on, but not all of it is new. The Illinois Eye Institute is still primarily
devoted to serving the underserved and meeting the challenges of its diverse patient population.
It remains an academic environment, where students benefit from what is generally
considered one of the best clinical training programs available.
Some things will never change. ◆
The Illinois Eye Institute was the location for a segment of
PBS’s “Spotlight ON” series. Produced in conjunction with the
American Optometric Association, the piece features IEI staffers’
school-age kids receiving care in the pediatrics department.
5 ICO Matters / Spring 2005
Visitors from medical and optometry schools in China met with
Janice Jurkus, OD ’76, (far right) and Dr. David Lee (center)
late last year at the Illinois Eye Institute. They were visiting the
United States as part of J&J Vistakon’s Vision Institute.