EMPLOYEE HANDBOOK NOVEMBER 2022

UEC InSight

The University Eye Center’s New Employee Handbook

November 2022

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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

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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

Active NYS Registration Important Faculty Events

Clinical Vision Research Center (CVRC) Continuing Education Requirements

Patient Financial Services

Medical Records

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University Police Department

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Mailroom Services

Payroll, Business Affairs, & Bursar

Paychecks Distribution

Time and Attendance Sheets College Work Study Payroll

Business Affairs

Human Resources Leave Benefits

Holidays Benefits Pay Day

Direct Deposit

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

Internal Control and Enterprise Risk Management

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FY EYE

Department Extensions At-A-Glance

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All Gender Bathrooms

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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

I am pleased to welcome you 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 have joined a health care team dedicated to caring for the people of New York City and beyond. I hope that you will take exceptional pride in your work and in the positive impact you will have on people and their ability to see. As a health care community, we have a tremendous obligation to assure that we provide the highest quality of vision care and to continually seek ways in which we can improve that care. The University Eye Center Employee Manual contains policies and procedures that help to ensure quality of care for all of our patients. I encourage you to make full use of the Employee manual as you strive to work well as an individual and as a member of our team. Thank you for your commitment and for your contributions. David A. Heath, O.D., Ed.M. 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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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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2018 – 2023 Strategic Plan: Care, Lead, Advance

Mission

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

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 life-long 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 health by making the highest quality patient care accessible to a broad range of communities.

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Themes and Goals for Student Success

Student-Centered Experience

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

Academic Excellence

2. Deliver a dynamic curriculum that engages students and advances contemporary optometry

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)

Service to Our Patients and the Greater Community

4. Deliver unparalleled care to our University Eye Center patients

5. Provide service to the greater community

Community and People

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

7. Promote the growth and development of all members of the College community

Effective Foundational Support

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

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

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Themes, Goals and Objectives

Student-Centered Experience

1. Enhance the student experience through programs that promote student and alumni success 1.1. Deliver a curriculum that reflects contemporary optometric practice and sub specializations, anticipates future changes and is flexible enough to respond to changes in the healthcare delivery 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 micro-credentials 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. Develop viable international rotation opportunities for 4th year interns to increase opportunities for fourth year rotations abroad 1.7. Develop meaningful connections between students and alumni that support career development, placement, networking and continuing education 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 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. Academic Excellence

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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) 3.1. 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 CVRC 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. Establish consortium agreements with universities in the metropolitan area, including SUNY and CUNY campuses to expand collaborative research opportunities and allow graduate students to take courses seamlessly at participating schools 4. Deliver unparalleled care to our University Eye Center patients 4.1. Increase access to current UEC services and expand services as appropriate to better meet the needs of our patients and educational programs 4.2. Improve the quality of care through  Continued integration of new and emerging technologies into patient care  Increased emphasis on best practices and evidence-base medicine  The expanded use of interdisciplinary, team-based care (Collaborative Practice) strategies  Improved care coordination and patient advocacy programs  Expanded 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 clinical services  Facilitate the exchange of patient information between providers and with patients via patient portals and Health Information Exchanges 4.4. Communications  Increase awareness in the medical community about the services we provide and how we can complement the care of other professionals  Develop a communications strategy to create a more positive narrative for the UEC on social media  Communicate the successes and value of the college and clinic to the community  Develop communication strategies to enhance visibility of the UEC and the services offered which improve access to care for the uninsured and underinsured 4.5. Improve operations to enhance the quality of care and patient outcomes Service to our patients and community

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 Ensure operational consistency with reporting and reimbursement models under healthcare reform  Explore and expand as indicated the use of ancillary personnel to improve efficiency and patient satisfaction 5. Provide service to the greater community 5.1. Expand outreach programs for underserved populations 5.2. Expand relationships with key healthcare organizations and continue efforts to increase the College’s footprint in the New York Metropolitan area 5.3. Further develop our role within Medicaid Redesign (DSRIP) landscape 5.4. Support and facilitate student involvement in service learning projects locally, nationally and internationally 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 while informing the community 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 engaging clinical, research, and public service programs for faculty, staff and students that emphasize collective purpose and institutional mission 6.4. Build a diverse and inclusive community by implementing the recommendations of the 2017 Diversity and Inclusion Master Plan 6.5. Provide leadership opportunities and develop succession plans for major areas of the College 7. Promote the growth and development of all members of the College community 7.1. Increase professional development opportunities for faculty and staff 7.2. Continue to recruit and retain talented individuals that enhance the College’s ethnic, cultural, and experiential diversity Community and People

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Effective Foundational Support

8. Attract the brightest and most motivated students with demonstrated leadership potential 8.1. Enroll a highly qualified, diverse, and engaged study 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 8.2. Insure the affordability of the Doctor of Optometry degree program by  Maintaining competitive tuition and fees while keeping graduate debt below the national average for schools and colleges of optometry  Identifying and increasing scholarship opportunities for incoming and enrolled students 8.3. Further develop recruitment strategies to better attract and enroll underrepresented minority (URM) and economically disadvantaged students to bring the College’s URM enrollment profile in line with that of medical schools nationally. 8.4. Develop effective communications strategies for attracting and engaging prospective students:  Capitalize on 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 and train alumni to serve as admissions ambassadors to reach out to prospective students 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

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9. Provide the financial foundation, administrative support and environment to achieve the College’s mission 9.1. Ensure healthy mix of revenue and funding sources 9.2. Invest in infrastructure, including the following priorities to be completed by 2023:  The complete renovation of two of the four floors devoted to UEC patient care  The buildout of the facilities needed for the College’s new translational research center. 9.3. Produce, analyze and act on performance data 9.4. Encourage strategic and data-driven decision making, as well as transparency and accountability. 9.5. Improve financial performance through increased non-taxpayer originated revenues and responsible spending using mission driven strategies. 9.6. Expand philanthropic and development efforts to increase support for the institution with an initial focus on:  student scholarships  clinic renovation  faculty chairs and faculty development programs  development of a translational research center  care for underserved populations in our community 9.7. Identify new and advance existing relationships with industry leaders through meaningful volunteer opportunities, partnerships, marketing, and financial support. 9.8. Increase positive visibility and media recognition in tristate marketplace

Approved and Effective: 12 September 2018

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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

Chancellor

Vacancy Outreach Coordinator

David Heath, OD President

Cecil ia Rodriguez Sr. Staff Asst

Richard Soden, OD Compliance Officer

Daniella Rutner, OD Privacy Officer

Monika Fuller Sr. Staff Assistant

Liduvina Martinez-Gonazlez VP for Clinical Administration

Karen Nieves Sr. Staff Asst

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 -Cal l Center

- Billing/Accounts Receivable - Patient Accounts - Revenue Cycle

27

Office of the Vice President for Clinical Administration

David Heath, OD President

Liduvina Martinez-Gonazlez VP for Clinical Administration

Andrea Brunhoelzl Director Clinical Operations

Marcia DeRiggs Director Patient Financial Services

Michael McGovern, OD Chief Medical Officer

- Clinic Managers - Records - Cal l Center - Referral Service

- Billing/Accounts Receivable - Patient Accounts - Revenue Cycle

- Clinical Faculty - Patient Care - Credentialing - Social Work

28

David Heath, OD President

Professional Services

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

Vacancy Director SocialWork

Sidney Contreras Director Credentialing

Divya Sood Manager Essilor Eyewear Ctr

Eva Duchnowski, OD Section Chief CLs

Mariana Butera, OD Assistant Chief

Jacqueline Sanchez Credentialing Specialist

Robert Chun, OD Assistant Chief Primary Care

Brian Martin Nurse

Amber Tavarez Staff Asst

Amy Steinway, OD Assistant Chief Primary Care

Robert Almanzar Staff Asst

Shelby Leach, OD Section Chief Pediatrics

Michael Doty Staff Asst

Boris Levin Equipment Tech

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Clinical Administration

David Heath, OD President

Liduvina Martinez-Gonzalez Vice President Clinical Administration

Monika Fuller Manager Clinical Admin

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

LorenaMaldonado Manager Pediatrics

Ken Singh Manager Patient Accounts

Susan Lee-Shareef Manager Referral Service

Jessilin Estevez Manager Vision Rehab

Matthew Bovenzi, OD Chief Advanced Care

Miguel Paneto EDI Specialist

Patricia Lambert Manager Advanced Care

Dalphanie Heyward Manager Medical Records

Vacancy Manager Revenue Cycle

Daniella Rutner, OD Chief Vision Rehab

Kali Berrios Manager Specialty CLs Vacancy Manager Primary Care

CelinesMendez Manager Call Center

Vacancy PFS Coordinator

Sidney Contreras Director Credentialing

Vacancy Director SocialWork

30

David Heath, OD President

Amy Winter Office Asst I

Ellen Baberadt Office Asst I

Shaquana Spencer Staff Asst

Clinical Operations

Tierre Jackson Staff Asst

Liduvina Martinez-Gonzalez Vice President Clinical Administration

Dalphanie Heyward Manager Medical Records

Kim Price Staff Asst

Andrea Brunhoelzl Director Clinical Operations

Judith St. Louis AsstDirector Clinical Administration

Vacancy Clinic Manager Primary Care

Patricia Lambert Clinic Manager Advanced Care

Jessilin Estevez Clinic Manager Vision Rehab

Kali Berrios Clinic Manager Contact Lens

LorenaMaldonado Clinic Manager Pediatrics

Susan Lee-Shareef Manager Referral Service

CelinesMendez Manager Call Center

Michael Lipkowicz Assistant Manager

Leticia Jaquez Coordinator

Brandon Williams Office Asst I

KierraManning TH Staff Asst

Manuel Garcia Office Asst I

Monica Guerrero Staff Asst

Giovanni Sanchez Call Ctr Rep

John Rivera Office Asst I

Dakarai Conway Office Asst I

Gloria Llamas Office Asst I

Vacancy TH Staff Asst

Vacancy Staff Asst

Karen Biro Office Asst I

Patricia Villanueva Call Ctr Rep

Paul Ng Office Asst I

Shantay Burgos Office Asst I

Vacancy Office Asst I

Vacancy TH Staff Asst

Shanta Richard Call Ctr Rep

Joannie Rivera Call Ctr Rep

Robin Marino Office Asst I

MiriamMcClean Office Asst I

Vacancy Office Asst I

Anita Barrington Optom Asst

Jessenia Rosa Call Ctr Rep

Roxzanne Lezana Office Asst I

Irma Gomez Office Asst II

Vacancy Optom Asst

Tracie Martinez Call Ctr Rep

Shakeesha Ballard Office Asst I

Aubrey Assim Optom Asst

Vacancy Office Asst I

Nehmat Sabra TH Staff Asst

Vacancy Office Asst I

Sloane Valentin Call Ctr Rep

Vacancy Office Asst I

Schnell Philip Call Ctr Rep

Jorgegino DeJongh Call Ctr Rep

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David Heath, OD President

Patient Financial Services

Liduvina Martinez-Gonzalez Vice President Clinical Administration

Marcia DeRiggs Director Patient Financial Services

Vacancy Manager Revenue Cycle

Ken Singh Manager Pt Accts

Miguel Paneto EDI Specialist

Tamicker Stewart Billing Rep

Yuldi Giron Office Asst II

Saquan Herring PFS Coordinator

Patricia Chavez Billing Rep

Veronica Wade Office Asst II

Monica Swaby Office Asst II

Shirley Chung Billing Rep

Erika Ayala PFS Coordinator

Eunice Hargrove Office Asst II

Lakeyah Guerrero Billing Rep

Dmitry Bekker Billing Rep

Whendy McDougall Office Asst II

Rochelle Kale Billing Rep

Tracie McNair Billing Rep

Vacancy Office Asst II

Dawn Walsh Johnson Billing Rep

Vacancy Office Asst II

Vacancy Billing Rep

Vacancy Office Asst II

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Medical Records

David Heath, OD President

Liduvina Martinez-Gonzalez Vice President Clinical Administration

Andrea Brunhoelzl Director Clinical Operations

Judith St. Louis Asst. Director for Patient Access & Engagement

Dalphanie Heyward Manager Medical Records

Amy Winter Office Asst I

Ellen Baberadt Office Asst I

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David Heath, OD President

Essilor Eyewear Center

Liduvina Martinez-Gonzalez Vice President Clinical Administration

Michael McGovern, OD Chief Medical Officer

Diane Calderon, OD Chief, Primary Care

Divya Sood Manager Essilor Eyewear Ctr

Sherma Lashley Optom Asst

Anna Meykler Optician

Ella Mashkevich Optician

Jorge Huaman Optician

Janeth Scaturro PT Optician

Quintin Sawyer Optician

Meneka Singh PT Optician

Wendy Hollander PT Optician

Eugene Chin Optician

Elizabeth Nicks Call Ctr Rep

Rosa Rodriguez TH Staff Asst

34