EMPLOYEE HANDBOOK

UEC InSight

The University Eye Center’s New Employee Handbook

January 2025

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TABLE OF CONTENTS Welcome

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Scope & Purpose of handbook

President’s Introduction

Vice President’s Introduction About SUNY/College of Optometry

Alphabetical Directory

Mission Statement & Strategic Plan

Our Expectations & Pledge Standards of Conduct

19 19 20 21 21 22 22 23 23 24 25 25 26 27 27 28 29 30 31 32 33 34 35 36 37 38 39 39 39 40 41 42 49 54

Our Pledge to Service Excellence

About UEC:

Services

Examinations Eyewear Center Contact Lenses Pediatric Services

The Glaucoma Institute Head Trauma Unit Specialty Contact Lens Vision Therapy Learning Disabilities Low Vision Service

Ocular Disease & Special Testing

Social Work

Payment & Insurance Options

Table of Organization Office of the Vice President for Clinical Affairs

Professional Services Clinical Service Areas Clinical Operations Patient Financial Services

Medical Records

Essilor Eyewear Center

University Eye Center Three Service Model

Clinical Faculty Information

Clinical Management Protocols Quality Assurance and Improvement Clinical Vision Research Center (CVRC) Continuing Education Requirements Active NYS Registration

Patient Financial Services

Medical Records

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University Police Department

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Mailroom Services

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Payroll, Business Affairs, & Bursar

60 60 60 60 61 61 62 62 66 66 70 70 71 74 74 74 75 77 81 83 87 89 90 97

Paychecks Distribution

Time and Attendance Sheets College Work Study Payroll

Business Affairs

Human Resources Leave Benefits

Holidays Benefits Pay Day

Direct Deposit

Unplanned Absences Required Training

Annual Compliance Training Annual Online Training Confidentiality Agreement

Call Source

Annual Health Assessment

Annual Health Assessment and TB Status Form

Information Technology Services Email Etiquette Guidelines

Acceptable Use Policy: Public Access Facilities and E-mail Clinical Information System Authorization Release Form

Dress Code and Appearance Standards Emergency Response Management Plan

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Internal Control and Enterprise Risk Management

FY EYE

Department Extensions At-A-Glance

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Appendix Gender-Neutral Restroom Locations

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All Gender Bathrooms

Employee Handbook Receipt

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SCOPE & PURPOSE OF HANDBOOK This employee handbook has been prepared to give you general information about the basic work rules, work environment, and policies under which we operate. More extensive information is available from supervisors, Personnel, Clinical Administration, or the Civil Service Contract Agreement (CSEA, UUP, PEF). From time to time, you may receive updated information concerning changes in policy. If you have any questions, please ask your immediate supervisor for assistance. This handbook is not a contract, express or implied, guaranteeing employment for any specific duration. We hope that your employment relationship with us will be long term. WELCOME Welcome! As an employee of the State of New York , you join a dedicated team of individuals who work to serve the people of the State. As an employee of the University Eye Center at the State University of New York College of Optometry, you join a team of professionals at one of the largest optometric patient care facilities in the nation. The growth of this facility can be attributed to our employees’ knowledge, skills, and commitment to providing outstanding patient and customer service. The more you learn about the University Eye Center, the better employee you will be. We are pleased that you have joined our team and look forward to working with you as we continue to strive towards fulfilling our mission.

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PRESIDENT’S MESSAGE

Welcome to the State University of New York (SUNY) College of Optometry and to the University Eye Center (UEC). As an employee of the UEC, you are now an important part of our health care team dedicated to providing the eye and vision care needs of New Yorkers and patients in the Greater New York region and beyond. I hope that you will enjoy your new position and embrace the responsibilities and important role you will play helping people see. As an eye and vision health care community, we have a tremendous obligation to assure that we provide the highest quality care for our patients and are continually seeking ways we can improve our services care. By taking pride in your work, you can help us achieve those goals. The University Eye Center Employee Manual contains policies and procedures that help to ensure the quality of care we provide to our patients. I encourage you to use it to help guide you to be the most effective member of our team you can be. Thank you for your commitment and dedication. David Troilo, PhD President, SUNY College of Optometry

VICE PRESIDENT’S MESSAGE

I would like to welcome you as a valued member of the University Eye Center, the patient care facility of the SUNY College of Optometry. As a new member of our team, we recognize that there is a significant amount of information to absorb. This manual was developed to provide you with easy access to general information about our organization. I encourage you to be an active member in our community and to take full advantage of the orientation you will be provided with. As a health care facility we take pride in the exceptional care we provide our patients. The total patient experience is paramount to our success. As such, we each have a role in the experience of our patients — regardless of your specific job function. Thank you for joining our team and sharing in our commitment to patient care, education and research. I look forward to working with you to achieve our goals and hope that you will have a long, productive and satisfying career at SUNY. Liduvina Martinez-Gonzalez, MS, FACHE Vice President for Clinical Administration and Executive Director of the University Eye Center 5

ABOUT SUNY/COLLEGE OF OPTOMETRY Founded in 1971 in New York City, the SUNY College of Optometry provides state-of-the-art education in the theory and contemporary practice of optometry. With primary emphasis placed on the excellence of its academic programs and faculty, the College also includes on the country’s largest outpatient eye and vision care facilities, the University Eye Center. Students receive an unparalleled clinical experience. In addition to its professional program, the College offers graduate research degrees in Vision Science (MS/PhD) and post-graduate clinical residency programs. With more than 15 scientists involved in interdisciplinary projects, the College has gained an international reputation for excellence in innovative vision science research.

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Welcome to the State University of New York College of Optometry and the University Eye Center ALPHABETICAL DIRECTORY

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Academic A airs.................................................................................. Administration and Finance............................................................. Alumni A airs........................................................................................ Alumni Commons ............................................................................... Biological and Vision Sciences..................................................... Bursar........................................................................................................ Business A airs...................................................................................... Career Development Center........................................................... Center for Student Life and Learning.......................................... Clinical Education................................................................................ Communications................................................................................. Confucius Institute.............................................................................. Continuing Professional Education.............................................. Facilities and Management Services....................................... Feder Hall (101)...................................................................................... Folsom Hall (206).................................................................................. Fitness Center.................................................................................. Harold Kohn Vision Science Library............................................... Human Resources................................................................................. Healthcare Development.................................................................. Information Technology/Media Services..................................... Institutional Advancement.............................................................. Institutional Research and Planning............................................. Lecture Hall (103).................................................................................. President's O ce................................................................................. Residency Programs........................................................................... Scha er Lounge.................................................................................... Schwarz Theater......................................................................... Seminar Room (222)............................................................................ Student A airs and International Programs..............................

Advanced Care (Ocular disease and Imaging)............................ Clinical Administration....................................................................... Contact Lenses....................................................................................... Essilor Eyewear Center......................................................................... Medical Records.................................................................................... Patient Information Desk.................................................................... Pediatrics.................................................................................................. Primary Care (Adult and Pediatric).................................................. Rehabilitation (Vision Therapy, Head Trauma, Low Vision)..................................................................

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9 9 11 2-3

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11 12 11 12 3/Mezz 1 2 3/Mezz

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Biological and Vision Sciences Laboratories............................ Clinical Vision Research Center........................................................ Graduate Center for Vision Research............................................. Schnurmacher Institute for Vision Research...............................

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12 11 2 Lower Level 2 11

SUNY Charter Schools Institute...................................................... SUNY Center for Collaborative Online International Learning (COIL).......................................................... SUNY Recruitment Center................................. 18 18 Lower Level/Mezz

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CARE LEAD ADVANCE

2018–2025 Strategic Plan

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Our Mission

The State University of New York College of Optometry advances visual health and patient care through leadership in education, research and service.

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Our Institutional Values

Leadership We develop leaders and scholars in education, research and patient care. Professionalism We conduct ourselves with integrity and civility, and embrace evidence-based practice and lifelong learning. Inquiry We support discovery and understanding through basic, translational and clinical research.

Innovation We foster an environment that promotes creativity in optometric education, research and patient care. Diversity We respect the dignity of all individuals and value their unique cultural traditions and perspectives. Service We enhance public heath by making the highest quality patient care accessible to a broad range of communities.

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Student-Centered Experience

Goal 1: Enhance the student experience through programs that promote student and alumni success

1.1 Deliver a curriculum that reflects contemporary optometric practice and subspecialties, anticipates future changes and is flexible enough to respond to changes in the health care system 1.2 Provide students with a strong foundation for clinical care of basic and advanced optometric conditions while supporting them to develop the communication and cognitive skills needed for evidence-based patient care 1.3 Provide microcredentials in clinical concentrations beyond the core educational experience 1.4 Provide students with facilities, support and resources for deep, integrated and active learning throughout the curriculum

1.5 Enhance the student experience through customized opportunities for individual development and success 1.6 Provide support services to students to promote their emotional and physical well-being 1.7 Continue to develop and engage in international programs and opportunities as appropriate 1.8 Facilitate opportunities for students, residents, and alumni, including recent graduates, to access and activate the College’s relationship capital for career development and professional success

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4 SUNY OPTOMETRY 2018–2025

Academic Excellence

Goal 2: Deliver a dynamic curriculum that engages students and advances contemporary optometry 2.1 Define and implement a core curriculum that teaches the foundation needed for entry-level contemporary optometric practice efficiently and effectively 2.2 Identify and develop several concentrations in advanced optometric practice aligned with residency and AAO Diplomate advanced competency training tracks 2.3 Pilot and implement, if successful, a series of content progress examinations for the formative assessment of student learning and teaching effectiveness 2.4 Support faculty development and implementation of innovative teaching strategies that improve student engagement and learning 2.5 Create or refine training experiences at the University Eye Center (UEC) and externship sites that emphasize evidence-based practice in primary care optometry and provide experience in areas of advanced care/ competency (subspecialties) 2.6 Review and reform UEC-based residency programs to lead in the adoption of Advanced Competency-

based program design in anticipation of and alignment with developing subspecialties within the profession of optometry 2.7 Prepare students and residents who are equipped to care for a diverse patient base (DIMP 2.0 – Goal 3) — Ensure that learning objectives in basic science and clinical courses address, as appropriate, to the course material, social determinants of health — Develop curricular learning objectives related to culturally sensitive communication with patients and assess student skills in meeting these objectives

Goal 3: Grow the graduate and research programs to increase the institutional impact on the advancement of knowledge and to produce leaders in vision research (basic, translational and clinical)

3.3 Reorganize the OD-PhD program to include elements of the Advanced Standing OD and Residency-Graduate programs so as to develop a track for clinician scientists and increase clinical research productivity 3.4 Engage universities in the New York City metropolitan area, including SUNY and CUNY campuses, to expand collaborative educational and research opportunities

3.1 Expand funded basic, translational and clinical research to increase opportunities for graduate students (OD MS, Residency-Graduate program and PhD) to carry out mentored research in active laboratories 3.2 Continue to expand clinical research activity and clinical faculty involvement opportunities through the Clinical Vision Research Center

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CARE • LEAD • ADVANCE

Service to Our Patients and Community

Goal 4: Deliver unparalleled care to our University Eye Center patients

4.1 Increase access (affordability, availability, accessibility, accommodation and acceptability) to current UEC services and expand services as appropriate to meet the needs of our patients and educational programs 4.2 Improve the quality of care — Continue integration of new and emerging technologies into patient care — Increase emphasis on best practices and evidence based medicine — Expand use of interdisciplinary, team-based care (collaborative practice) strategies — Improve care coordination and patient advocacy programs — Expand patient access to educational information about their eye care, health and health-related behaviors 4.3 Develop strategies to enhance the patient experience and increase patient satisfaction — Develop additional methods for patients to provide feedback about the services we provide and the care they receive — Implement training programs to improve efficiency and the patient experience — Streamline patient flow within the clinic — Facilitate the exchange of patient information between providers and with patients via patient portals and health information exchanges — Ensure that all clinical services are provided in a culturally sensitive manner 4.4 Educate the college community on cultural humility and sensitivity and empower them to apply those principles to patient care and provide clinical services in a culturally sensitive manner (DIMP 2.0 – Goal 4) 4.5 Enhance the visibility and positioning of the UEC across communication and outreach channels

— Increase awareness in the medical community about the services we provide and how we can complement the care of other professionals — Create a positive narrative for the UEC across digital media channels, highlighting the successes of the college in clinical research and patient care services to the community — Develop communications strategies to enhance visibility of the UEC and the services offered which improve access to care for the uninsured and underinsured 4.6 Improve operations to enhance the quality of care and patient healthcare outcomes — Ensure operational consistency with reporting and reimbursement models under health care reform — Explore and expand, as indicated, the use of ancillary personnel to improve efficiency and patient satisfaction

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6 SUNY OPTOMETRY 2018–2025

Goal 5: Provide service to the greater community

5.1 Expand and strengthen community partnerships to better serve our diverse population (DIMP 2.0 – Goal 5) — Expand outreach programs for medically underserved population

— Expand relationships with key health care organizations and continue efforts to increase the College’s footprint in the New York metropolitan area 5.2 Support and facilitate student involvement in service learning projects, locally, nationally and internationally

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Community and People

Goal 6: Cultivate an institutional culture that encourages a sense of community, inclusion, institutional pride, collective purpose and shared responsibility

6.1 Develop mechanisms for enhanced internal and external communication that expand awareness of our mission, programs and achievements through the dissemination of accurate and transparent information 6.2 Integrate into the hiring and performance review processes an increased recognition of institutional commitment and demonstration of shared responsibility

6.3 Develop collaborative clinical, research and public service programs for faculty, staff and students that emphasize collective purpose and institutional mission 6.4 Build a diverse, inclusive and equitable community by implementing the recommendations of the Diversity and Inclusion Master Plan(s) (DIMP 2.0) 6.5 Provide leadership opportunities and develop succession plans for major areas of the College

Goal 7: Promote the growth and development of all members of the College community

7.1 Increase professional development opportunities for faculty, staff and administrators 7.2 Develop and provide formal training programs for new faculty to succeed in their roles as educators and scholars at the College 7.3 Continue to recruit and retain talented faculty, staff and students who enhance the College’s ethnic, cultural and experiential diversity (DIMP 2.0 – Goal 1) 7.4 Create and foster a culture of inclusion and belonging for all people (DIMP 2.0 – Goal 2) — To increase the number of students and faculty from underrepresented minoritized communities in our student body and academic workforce

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8 SUNY OPTOMETRY 2018–2025

Effective Foundational Support

Goal 8: Attract the brightest and most motivated students with demonstrated leadership potential

8.2 Make the College a destination of choice for underrepresented students (DIMP 2.0 – Goal 1) 8.3 Ensure the affordability of the Doctor of Optometry degree program — Maintain competitive tuition and fees while keeping graduate debt below the national average for schools and colleges of optometry — Identify and increase scholarship opportunities for incoming and enrolled students to expand merit and need based awards (Continued...)

8.1 Enroll a highly qualified, diverse and engaged student body that will contribute to a vibrant community — Increase awareness of the optometry profession among health care advisors and prospective students through continued development of pipeline programs — Continue to improve the quality of all application/ admissions stage experiences — Continue to make leadership potential, civic engagement and reflective thinking explicit criteria for admission to the professional program — Further develop recruitment strategies to better attract and enroll underrepresented minoritized (URM) and economically disadvantaged students to bring the College’s URM enrollment profile in line with that of medical schools nationally

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8.5 Expand data driven decision making in the admission process through the ongoing evaluation of the pre- and post-admissions factors that predict academic and clinical success 8.6 Further develop advanced standing OD programs for internationally trained scientists, physicians and optometrists

8.4 Develop effective communications strategies for attracting and engaging prospective students — Leverage digital media to attract and enroll prospective students

— Allocate resources toward high yield and strategically important markets and reach to secondary and tertiary markets through a mix of traditional, digital and armchair recruitment initiatives — Highlight alumni success stories in recruitment programs — Recruit, activate and support alumni who volunteer as admissions ambassadors

Goal 9: Provide the financial foundation, administrative support and environment to achieve the College’s mission

9.6 Expand philanthropic and overall development efforts that increase support for the following institution priorities: — Increasing student scholarships and programs — Capital improvements as noted in Goal 9.2 — Faculty and professional development programs — Enhancing diversity, equity and inclusion in all aspects of the College community (DIMP 2.0 – Goal 6) — Providing care for the medically underserved populations in our community 9.7 Identify new and advance existing relationships with industry leaders through meaningful partnerships, marketing and financial support 9.8 Increase positive visibility and media recognition in tristate marketplace

9.1 Ensure healthy mix of revenue and funding sources 9.2 Invest in infrastructure, including the following priorities to be completed by 2025: — Complete renovation of two of the floors devoted to UEC patient care — Buildout the facilities needed for the College’s CVRC on the 14th floor — Design and construction of a new translational research center on the 16th floor 9.3 Continue to collect, publish, analyze and act on performance data 9.4 Foster strategic and data-driven decision making, and enhance transparency and accountability 9.5 Improve financial performance through increased non- taxpayer originated revenues and responsible spending using mission driven strategies

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10 SUNY OPTOMETRY 2018–2025

2018–2025 Strategic Plan Goals

Student-Centered Experience

Enhance the student experience through programs that promote student and alumni success

Academic Excellence Deliver a dynamic curriculum that engages students and advances contemporary optometry Grow the graduate and research programs to increase the institutional impact on the advancement of knowledge and produce leaders in vision research

Service to Our Patients and Community

Deliver unparalleled care to our University Eye Center patients Provide service to the greater community

Student Success

Community and People Cultivate institutional culture that encourages a sense of community, inclusion, institutional pride, collective purpose, and shared responsibility Promote the growth and development of all members of the College community

Effective Foundational Support Attract the brightest and most motivated students with demonstrated leadership potential Provide the financial foundation, administrative support, and environment to achieve the College’s mission

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CARE • LEAD • ADVANCE

OUR EXPECTATIONS

STANDARDS OF CONDUCT Employees of the University Eye Center are expected to accept certain responsibilities, adhere to accepted business and professional principles in manners of personal conduct, and exhibit a high degree of personal integrity at all times. This responsibility not only involves sincere respect for the rights and feelings of others, but also demands that both in professional and personal life employees refrain from any behavior that might be harmful to others. We view service to our patients and their families as our most important responsibility. You are expected to help us carry out this policy by extending every courtesy and assistance towards patients and families, as well as your coworker.

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OUR PLEDGE TO SERVICE EXCELLENCE I understand that the University Eye Center is committed to being the best in the provision of eye care and takes pride in having people on its team who care and are inspired in their work by a desire to help others. I also understand that the success of this commitment depends 100% on our individual and cooperative efforts. Therefore, I agree to S.T.E.P. up to the challenge of service excellence through the following: SERVICE I agree to always put patients & families first. I agree to quickly & appropriately respond to the needs of all patients. I agree to be professional & exhibit a positive attitude. I agree to be caring, courteous, respectful, & compassionate. TEAMWORK I agree to promote a sense of unity & teamwork in my work area & throughout UEC. I agree to be a responsible team member who is honest & accountable for my actions. I agree to support the members of my team. I agree to act as a role model by promoting cooperation between departments. EXCELLENCE I agree to constantly strive to improve the quality & timeliness of services provided. I agree to use & conserve resources wisely. I agree to continuously improve personally & professionally. PROFESSIONALISM I agree to take pride in my work. I agree to comply with UEC standards & policies. I agree to honor the confidentiality of our patients. I agree to promote a positive image of myself and the organization through professional appearance & behavior. Sometimes the challenges of my daily duties may cause me to question this pledge, but I will remember that patients depend on what I do. I will extend myself so our patients will receive a level of service that exceeds their expectations.

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ABOUT UEC University Eye Center is the patient care facility of the State University of New York College of Optometry. Our internationally-recognized faculty of optometrists, ophthalmologists and ophthalmic dispensers has provided extraordinary eye care for the people of New York for more than 50 years. Because this is a teaching facility, our patients benefit from the careful oversight of supervising doctors with many years of patient care, teaching and research experience. Every patient receives a comprehensive examination that includes a thorough medical history, measurement of visual acuity and, eye movements binocularity, and assessment of eye health. If necessary, patients may obtain glasses and contact lenses.

The UEC is one of the largest outpatient vision care facility of its kind in the nation, with more than 70,000 patient visits annually.

UEC also provides a wide range of services not typically found at most eye care centers, from Infant exams and learning disabilities assessments to the latest treatments for ocular diseases.

Services

University Eye Center is everything you would expect in eye care, and much more. Our goal is to provide you with exceptionally complete optometric services, delivered by residency-trained Doctors of Optometry employing the most sophisticated technology in eye care today.

Essilor Eyewear Center

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 Comprehensive Eye Examinations  Glaucoma Institute  Head Trauma Unit  Low Vision  Ocular Diseases & Special Testing  Outpatient Surgery Center

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Pediatric Services

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Infant Vision Clinic

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Children with Special Needs

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Ocular Disease

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Myopia Management

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Social Work Services

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Contact Lenses Vision Therapy

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Payment & Insurance Options

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Learning Disabilities

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Examinations

At University Eye Center you'll receive one of the most comprehensive eye examinations you've ever had. We don't make claims like "we'll get you out in under an hour," because we think your vision is too important to rush. Our eye care professionals take time to thoroughly assess the health and function of your eyes, including:  Ocular and General Health History  Refraction  Binocular Assessment  Ocular Health Evaluation  Glaucoma and Cataract Evaluation  Evaluation of Systemic Disease, including Diabetes and Hypertension  Contact Lens Services

Essilor Eyewear Center

The Eyewear Center at the University Eye Center is a state of the art facility that serves the needs of UEC patients, providing the highest quality glasses and sunglasses for your visual and physical comfort.

Eyeglasses

Being fit for new glasses requires knowledge and experience in both frame and lens design. Our courteous and experienced staff is composed of New York State licensed ophthalmic dispensers (opticians) who are experts in fitting glasses for infants, seniors and everyone in between. Many factors must be taken into

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account, including cosmetics, the nature and strength of your prescription, available lens materials and your lifestyle (hobbies, occupation, etc.). We provide every type of available lenses, including:

Progressive lenses

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Special computer glasses

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 Polaroid lenses (for sun and polarized lenses)  Polycarbonate lenses (the most impact resistant material for all children, sports and/or safety use)  Anti-reflection coatings (designed to reduce reflections and enhance the wearer’s appearance) In addition, the UEC Eyewear Center has more than 1,200 frames, in styles to suit any budget. Approximately 85% of all our glasses are fabricated on site, in our finishing laboratory, ensuring the highest degree of quality control. Contact Lenses The contact lens service provides wide variety of options for cosmetic and medically necessary contact lens patients as well as those requiring a prosthetic eye fitting. Contact lenses are medical devices and require fitting and follow up visits to finalize contact lens prescription. Cosmetic contact lenses are elective and can be worn in lieu of glasses. Medically necessary contact lenses are typically prescribed for patients who achieve better vision thru custom contact lenses compared to glasses and include but are not limited to, those with high astigmatism, keratoconus, post corneal surgery (including refractive surgery), aphakia (including infants), and post ocular trauma. Specialized services also include Corneal Refractive Therapy (Orthokeratology), prosthetic lenses for disfigured eyes, and tinted lenses for sports or color vision deficiencies. In addition to contact lens services, we also see patients in concert with consulting corneal specialist and offer in office treatment for recurrent corneal erosions. Pediatric Services Healthy eyes and good vision are critically important components of any child's ability to learn. In fact, 80 percent of learning is visually based - one reason why the American Optometric Association recommends that every baby receive a vision examination between 6-12 months of age. At University Eye Center, we provide comprehensive eye care to patients from infancy to adolescence, delivered by residency-trained Doctors of Optometry who understand how to put an apprehensive youngster at ease.  Tints and ultraviolet protective coatings.

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Comprehensive Pediatric Eye Examinations Including:

Eye and general health history

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 Refraction and prescription of lenses for nearsighted and farsighted children  Binocular assessment, including assessment of lazy eye and crossed eyes  Eye health evaluation  Visual development evaluation  Identification of learning related vision problems Following the initial exam, our staff will provide appropriate management, follow-up care and, if needed, referral to our Specialty Services for young patients.

Pediatric Specialty Services

Infant Vision Clinic

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Children with Special Needs

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Ocular Disease

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Myopia Management

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The Glaucoma Institute

The first facility devoted exclusively to glaucoma, the Glaucoma Institute at University Eye Center is dedicated to providing the highest quality patient care, research, public education, and continuing professional education. The Glaucoma Institute brings together world-renowned vision scientists, residency-trained Doctors of Optometry, ophthalmologists and state-of-the-art technology- all of whom are dedicated to the care, treatment and investigation of this most common, yet still misunderstood, ocular disease. The Institute is sponsored, in part, by an unrestricted educational grant from Novartis Ophthalmics.

Glaucoma

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Ocular Hypertension

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 Ocular Disease and Special Testing Service

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Head Trauma Unit

Incidents like strokes, motor vehicle accidents, falls, physical assaults, pedestrian accidents or brain surgery can often disrupt the visual process and interfere with information flow and processing in the brain. The Head Trauma Unit at University Eye Center serves as a resource for both patients and rehabilitation hospitals and centers throughout the New York Metropolitan area, providing comprehensive ocular and visual services to individuals with acquired brain injuries.

Head Trauma Evaluations Include:

Refractive Evaluation

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 Assessment of the Binocular Vision System  Electro-Diagnostic Assessment of Eye Movements  Ocular Health Assessment and Management  State-of-the-Art Visual Field Evaluation Visual Field Defects, and Visual Neglect  Visual Skills Evaluation, including sensitivity to light Two to three visits may be required to complete the evaluation. Upon review of the findings, a management plan is developed which may include special prism spectacles, vision therapy, referral, and follow-up with other professionals involved in the patient's care. The patient is periodically reevaluated by the Head Trauma Unit’s team to monitor and, if necessary, alter the individual treatment plan to achieve the improve patients activities of daily living.

Specialty Contact Lenses

For some patients, their particular ocular conditions demand a more exacting and sophisticated contact lens. The Contact Lens Service at University Eye Center provides specialty contact lens and ocular prosthetic services to treat a variety of visual problems, including:

Keratoconus

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Extreme Myopia High Astigmatism

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Irregular or Scarred Corneas

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Pediatric Aphakia

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Iris Dystrophy

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Dry Eye

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Other Specialty Services Include:

Ocular Prosthetics Orthokeratology Corneal Topography Corneal Photography

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Ocular Disease & Special Testing

To provide diagnostic and therapeutic management of ocular disease and related systemic disease, University Eye Center has several Specialty Services clinics. Using state-of-the-art procedures, sophisticated diagnostic tools and teams of health professionals, we provide expert care of glaucoma, age-related eye disorders, diabetic and hypertensive eye disease, and other more complex eye and vision abnormalities.

Our Specialty Services

Cataract Clinic Cornea Clinic

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Neuro-ocular Clinic Oculo-plastic Clinic

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Retina Clinic

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The Glaucoma Institute Out-Patient Surgery Center

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Each Specialty Service operates from once to three times per week, from Monday Friday.

Our clinical services are provided by teams of health professionals that include:

 Doctors of Optometry who have completed Residency Programs in Ocular Disease or Hospital-Based Practice.  Attending ophthalmologists with clinical expertise in specialty areas.  Licensed practical Nurses (LPN) who provide patient education and ensure appropriate follow-up and compliance. A social worker who is available to assist patients and their families with social and financial needs and referrals to other community resources.

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Vision Therapy and Rehabilitation

The ability to learn in school, achieve on the job, and enjoy sports and recreation depends upon efficient vision. Vision, however, is more than the limited concept of sight measured in terms of visual acuity or "sharpness" - it is the process of deriving meaning from what is seen. It involves a complex network of physiological and neurological factors, including fixation and eye movement abilities, accommodation (eye focusing), convergence (eye aiming), binocularity (eye teaming), eye-hand coordination, visual perception and visual-motor integration. Problems in any one of these areas can be debilitating.

University Eye Center's Vision Therapy Service treats patients with developmental, acquired and/or some congenital visual dysfunctions, including:

Amblyopia (Lazy Eye)

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 Strabismus (Crossed or Wandering Eye)  Binocular (Eye Teaming) Disorders  Accommodative (Eye Focusing) Disorders  Oculomotor (Eye Movement) Dysfunction  Visual-Perceptual Dysfunction

If a comprehensive analysis and diagnosis of the patient's visual system reveals visual dysfunction, we will develop a treatment plan individualized to help the patient achieve their maximum level of visual performance. Possible treatment strategies include the use of lenses, prisms and patching, computer techniques, virtual reality and other equally proven treatment regimens. Another integral part of the Vision Therapy Service is our Learning Disabilities Unit - an interdisciplinary clinical, research and educational unit established to provide diagnostic and therapeutic services to children and adults with learning problems.

Learning Disabilities

Our Mission

To provide diagnostic and therapeutic services designed to meet the needs of children, adolescents and adults with learning related visual problems. Clinical services are provided by an interdisciplinary team of optometrists, psychologists and educational specialists.

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Diagnostic Services Include:

Comprehensive Vision Evaluation Visual Perceptual Evaluation

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Clinical Interview

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Neuro-Psychological Evaluation

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Educational Testing Reporting Conference

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Individualized vision therapy programs are based on the results of the diagnostic evaluations. Therapy program are directed at improving the visual, perceptual and cognitive skills which impair academic and vocational functioning.

Low Vision Service

Some patients have been told that "nothing more can be done"... that their reduced vision or loss of side vision cannot be corrected by any standard means. They have had to accept that daily tasks like reading, writing, watching television, and walking will be permanently made difficult by their "incurable" low vision. For these men, women and children with congenital or acquired vision loss, there is the Low Vision Service at University Eye Center. Our comprehensive low vision evaluation carefully assesses the patient's current visual status, identifies the goals and visual needs, and designs an individualized rehabilitation program to meet these needs. Rehabilitative measures include highly specialized eyeglasses and a full range of low vision devices such as hand and stand magnifiers, telescopes, microscopes and electronic magnification systems. Our Technology Center enables us to evaluate patients for CCTV's, computer adaptations and modifications, and other state-of-the-art high-tech devices. Other measures available include sun wear evaluations, lighting and environmental design consultations to maximize function in the patient's real world setting. We will also provide social services and referrals for Orientation and Mobility Training and Activities of Daily Living Programs as needed. Although low vision rehabilitation can not restore vision loss, most patients can benefit from services to make the most of their remaining sight.

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Social Work Services

University Eye Center’s social workers are here to help you cope with whatever challenges you face. We are part of an inter-disciplinary team working with vision specialists and other health care professionals to provide the best possible care.

Social Work Services at University Eye Center include:

 Short-term individual and/or group counseling for adults, children, and families to enhance coping skills  Referral to community resources  Interdisciplinary collaboration  Patient advocacy with outside social systems such as medical and educational institutions  Patient and staff education Why am I being contacted by a social worker when I just wanted to set up an appointment with the low vision or head trauma service? Social workers contact all head trauma and low vision patients to obtain a complete history of the patient’s needs and present ing problems. In this way we can enable the optometrist to provide a more comprehensive exam, as well as identify any gaps in service, make referrals, and inform patients of services provided at UEC such as short-term counseling and support groups. Common Questions

Is counseling available only to Patients of the UEC?

No, the resources of the social work department are available to all members of the SUNY College of Optometry community including students, faculty, and staff.

Is there a cost associated with social work services?

No, Social work services are available without charge to any patient of the University Eye Center, as well as SUNY staff, faculty, and students.

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Planned replacement lenses

Payment & Insurance Options

University Eye Center accepts many different insurance plans and can arrange a customized payment plan to fit your needs. When you fill out an application we will evaluate your payment options.

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Office of the Vice President for Clinical Administration

State University of New York Board of Trustees

John B. King, Jr. Chancellor

David Troilo, OD President

Cristina Gomez Compliance Officer

Daniella Rutner, OD Privacy Officer

Liduvina Martinez-Gonazlez VP for Clinical Administration

Andrea Brunhoelzl Director Clinical Operations

Marcia DeRiggs Director Pt. Financial Services

Michael McGovern, OD Chief Medical Officer

- Clinical Faculty - Patient Care - QA & I - Credentialing - Social Work - Environmental Safety & Infection Control - Eyewear Center

- Clinical Operations and Clinic Managers - Records -Call Center

- Billing/Accounts Receivable - Patient Accounts - Revenue Cycle

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State University of New York Board of Trustees

John B. King, Jr. Chancellor

Professional Services

David Troilo, OD President

Liduvina Martinez-Gonzalez Vice President Clinical Administration

Michael McGovern, OD Chief Medical Officer

Diane Calderon, OD Chief Primary Care

Matthew Bovenzi, OD Chief Advanced Care

Daniella Rutner, OD Chief Vision Rehab

Sidney Contreras Director Credentialing

Eva Duchnowski, OD Section Chief CLs

Anthony Englezos Manager Essilor Eyewear Ctr

Mariana Butera, OD Assistant Chief

Jacqueline Sanchez Credentialing Specialist

Brian Martin Nurse

Amy Steinway, OD Assistant Chief Primary Care

Amber Tavarez Staff Asst

Michael Doty Staff Asst

Shelby Johnson, OD Section Chief Pediatrics

William Balgobin Staff Asst

Tracy Correa-Poole Equipment Tech

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State University of New York Board of Trustees

Clinical Administration

John B. King, Jr. Chancellor

David Troilo, OD President

Liduvina Martinez-Gonzalez Vice President Clinical Administration

Okel London Manager TH Staff Associate

Cecilia Rodriguez Sr. Staff Asst Clinical Admin Karen Nieves Sr. Staff Asst Clinical Admin

Andrea Brunhoelzl Director Clinical Operations

Marcia DeRiggs Director Pt Financial Services

Michael McGovern, OD Chief Medical Officer

Diane Calderon, OD Chief Primary Care

Judith St. Louis Asst Director Clinical Operations

Jessilin Estevez Manager Vision Rehab Christian Torres Manager Pediatrics

Ken Singh Manager Patient Accounts

Monica Guerrero Manager Referral Service

SaQuan Herring Manager Patient Accounts

Matthew Bovenzi, OD Chief Advanced Care

Patricia Lambert Manager Advanced Care

Samantha Jones Manager Medical Records

Miguel Paneto Manager Billing

Daniella Rutner, OD Chief Vision Rehab

Lorena Maldonado Manager Specialty CLs

Celines Mendez Manager Call Center

Kali Berrios Manager Billing

Dalphanie Heyward Manager Primary Care

Sidney Contreras Director Credentialing

Anabel Pacheco Rep Billing

Canndy Gyimah Staff Assistant

Cristina Gomez, Clinical Nurse Educator

Abraham Steel Rep Billing

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David Troilo, OD President

Amy Winter Office Asst I

Ellen Baberadt Office Asst I

Randall Perez Office Asst I

Clinical Operations

Vacancy Office Asst I

Liduvina Martinez-Gonzalez Vice President Clinical Administration

Samantha Jones Manager Medical Records

Kim Price Staff Asst

Andrea Brunhoelzl Director Clinical Operations

Judith St. Louis Asst Director Clinical Administration

Canndy Gyimah Staff Assistant

Dalphanie Heyward Clinic Manager Primary Care

Patricia Lambert Clinic Manager Advanced Care

Jessilin Estevez Clinic Manager Vision Rehab

Lorena Maldonado Clinic Manager Contact Lens

Christian Torres Clinic Manager Pediatrics

Monica Guerrero Manager Referral Service

Celines Mendez Manager Call Center

Tierre Jackson Asst Manager

Leticia Jaquez Coordinator

Miriam McClean Staff Asst

Mariangie Lopez Office Asst I

Kaitlyn Delgado Staff Asst

Giovanni Sanchez Call Ctr Rep

Jessica Uruchima Office Asst I

John Rivera Office Asst I

Lesley Lopez Office Asst I

Arelis Aquino Staff Asst

Karen Biro Office Asst I

Nehmat Sabra Staff Asst

Patricia Villanueva Call Ctr Rep

Fabian Gonzalez Office Asst I

Paul Ng Office Asst I

Jennifer Castro Office Asst I

Robin Marino Office Asst I

Shanta Richard Staff Asst

Joannie Rivera Call Ctr Rep

Gerdi Polanco Office Asst I

Melany Perez Staff Asst

Arianna Vazquez Office Asst I

Jessenia Rosa Call Ctr Rep

Michael Johnson Office Asst I

Irma Gomez Office Asst I

Carlos Pinela Office Asst I

Maria Mejia Call Ctr Rep

Litzy Ramales Optom Asst

Cristian Panora Call Ctr Rep

Aubrey Assim Office Asst I

Yuritzi Gachuz Office Asst I

Anita King Optom Asst

Sloane Valentin Call Ctr Rep

Erika Russell Office Asst I

Jorgegino DeJongh Call Ctr Rep

Kirstian Reyes Office Asst I

Luis Tavarez Call Ctr Rep

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