Don Fletcher

Donald C. Fletcher, M.D., is one of the world's leading authorities on low vision rehabilitation and is a clinician and researcher in the field of retinal diseases and low vision rehabilitation. He conducted much of the early research in applying the Scanning Laser Ophthalmoscope to the study of Age-related Macular Disease (AMD). He also established a new paradigm for low vision service delivery, engaging Occupational Therapists in the rehabilitation process for low vision – a model now widely spread across the country. Current research interests include macular function in low vision patients; outcomes of occupational therapy training of low vision patients; and psychology in low vision rehabilitation. He has extensive publications in the field and has brought several low vision devices and tests to the market. He is the Past Chairman of the American Academy of Ophthalmology Low Vision Committee, and the recipient of many awards including the Meritorious Achievement Award from the Association for the Education and Rehabilitation of the Blind and Visually Impaired for Outstanding Lifetime Contributions to Low Vision. He has a special interest in the provision of low vision care in underserved areas and has helped establish low vision clinics in various US locations, Canada, China, the Philippines, Chile, Brazil, and Zimbabwe.