• Welcome

    PFP Fall

    Welcome to the Department of Ophthalmology & Visual Sciences at the University of Iowa Hospitals and Clinics and thank you for your interest in our residency program.

    We offer a three-year ACGME-accredited program with a tradition of excellence. Our program is recognized as one of the finest ophthalmology training centers in the world and our clinical and research programs are consistently ranked among the best in Ophthalmology Times and U.S.News & World Report. Our department provides an environment that fosters not only intellectual curiosity and collaboration but also a commitment to teaching and patient care.

    Our facility covers over 56,000 square feet on two floors of the Pomerantz Family Pavilion as well as multiple off-site clinic and laboratory locations. With over 65,000 patient visits per year we are constantly striving to provide first class patient care. Our residency program seeks to give residents a broad general ophthalmology background with the opportunity to gain experience in all subspecialty areas.

    Please take this chance to explore the possibilities you will find at The University of Iowa.

    Thomas A. Oetting, MD, Director, Ophthalmology Residency Program

  • Resident Profile
  • 1234567891011121314
    Amanda (Amy) Maltry, MD

    Amanda (Amy) Maltry, MD

    Ophthalmology Resident, 2011-2014

    This program offers an outstanding depth of education alongside a welcoming atmosphere. I couldn't ask for more supportive co-residents or faculty.

    McAllister

    Angela McAllister, MD

    Ophthalmology Resident 2011-2014

    I was attracted by the strong teaching curriculum & surgical experience for the residents. After my interview I was convinced that Iowa would be a great fit, but what solidified my decision was when I returned to spend a day in clinic & saw that the faculty was genuinely happy & there was a positive attitude amongst everyone toward providing the best possible patient care.

    Christopher Watts

    Christopher E. Watts, MD

    Ophthalmology Resident
    2009-2012

    There is no place like Iowa for residency training.  Attending physicians who are well respected around the world not only spend a significant amount of their time teaching their craft in clinic and surgery, but they invite you over to dinner as well.  I came here to have great mentors and become well trained; after three years it has exceeded all expectations.

    Elizabeth Gauger, MD

    Elizabeth Gauger, MD

    Ophthalmology Resident, 2011-2014

    I chose Iowa because the faculty cares deeply about molding me into a great ophthalmologist. During my interview I was impressed with how tight-knit the department was. I also saw how the faculty truly love to teach! Iowa City is a very "liveable" city with a lot of culture. There are also great places just a quick drive away for outdoor activities.

    Esther Hong, MD

    Esther Hong, MD

    Ophthalmology Resident 2009-2012

    Without a doubt, our residency program has excellent opportunities in clinical care and research that are world renowned. These qualities make our program one of the best in the country. The world class faculty are dedicated to teaching. They are warm, approachable and care about our well being both as residents and as human beings.

    John Brinkley

    John J. (Joey) Brinkley, MD

    Ophthalmology Resident 2010-2013

    No other program is as attentive to the art and science of resident education.

    John Chen

    John J. Chen, MD, PhD

    Ophthalmology Resident, 2010-2013

    I came to Iowa for Ophthalmology because of the excellent training and the knowledgeable faculty. When I interviewed, I was drawn to the resident and staff camaraderie. After being here for a year, it has met and exceeded all of my expectations.

    Jordan Rixen

    Jordan J. Rixen, MD

    Ophthalmology Resident 2010-2013

    I chose Iowa because the Department of Ophthalmology is world renowned for excellent education, research and clinical care. There are few places in the world where you can have such a full range of ophthalmology training experiences while also enjoying the perks of living in a small, vibrant community.

    Justin Risma

    Justin Risma, MD

    Ophthalmology Resident 2011-2014

    Why Iowa? Outstanding reputation, Midwest charm, renowned (yet approachable) faculty, daily Grand Rounds, friendly staff, happy residents, fun city, and Big Ten football!

    Matthew Ward

    Matthew S. Ward, MD

    Ophthalmology Resident, 2009-2012

    It was clear on interview day that Iowa offered residency education on a different level compared to what I had seen out on the trail. I wanted to be a part of the atmosphere of excellence and camaraderie that I saw among the faculty and residents. I knew Iowa would help me achieve my goals whether they be in academics or private practice.

    Matthew Weed

    Matthew Weed, MD

    Ophthalmology Resident 2011-2014

    I felt at home in Iowa City from the moment I came to interview. Everyone I met, from the chair of the department to the waitress at a local restaurant, welcomed me with genuine kindness & respect. My family and I love our neighborhood and we can afford to live comfortably. With the world-class training from enthusiastic faculty, I can't imagine a single place I'd rather be.

    Meredith Baker

    Meredith A. Baker, MD

    Ophthalmology Resident, 2010-2013

    I chose Iowa for the people. I interviewed across the country and found that the people at Iowa seemed to care the most about their patients and also about each other. Now that I am here, the "people part" is true, but the hands-on teaching and relationships with faculty are two of the other aspects that I cherish the most.

    Pavlina Kemp, MD

    Pavlina Kemp, MD

    Ophthalmology Resident, 2011-2014

    I cannot say enough good things about UIHC. The people are kind & helpful, the faculty create a challenging and rewarding environment, and the department's focus is clearly on excellent patient care & resident education. Iowa City is great for families and has many fun things to do. I can't imagine being anywhere else for my residency training.

    Shaival Shah

    Shaival S. Shah, MD

    Ophthalmology Resident, 2009-2012

    I decided to come to Iowa because I thought it was the best residency program on the planet. It has outstanding training, great facilities, and everyone is really nice and happy.