By Staff
BUCHANAN – Drs. Steven and Brenda Smoke are proud to announce that optometrist Heather Cotter has joined the Smoke Family Vision Center. Dr. Cotter is a 2007 graduate of the Michigan College of Optometry (MCO) in Big Rapids.
She first earned her bachelor's of science degree in biology from Ferris State University in 2003.
Doctors of optometry are trained to examine, diagnose, treat and manage disorders that affect the eye or vision.
Following a rigorous four- year undergraduate program, the four-year doctoral-training program concentrates specifically on the structure, function and disorders of the eye and associated systemic disease.
In addition to their formal, doctoral-level training, all Michigan licensed optometrists must receive 40 hours of continuing education credits every two years to maintain their license and stay current on the latest standards of care.
"Patients are sometimes surprised to learn about the extensive education program for optometrists," states Dr. Cotter, "but, increasing public awareness about the care we are trained to provide and how optometrists can recognize critical health issues, such as diabetes and hypertension, will hopefully encourage them to seek care from their local optometrist."
During her educational years, Dr. Cotter was active in several student organizations and her extra-curricular involvement continued at MCO as she was active in the American Optometric Student Association, the Michigan Optometric Student Association, the Lions Club and Optometry Student Government.
She remains active in her local community of New Buffalo, as a Girl Scout troop leader and throughout the area providing educational programs and vision screenings for several organizations.
Drs. Steven and Brenda Smoke are thrilled that they have found a practitioner who's personality and philosophy of care mirrors their own in providing the highest standards of compassionate care to their patients.
The 18-year established primary eye care practice continues to grow significantly.
Dr. Cotter has allowed the practice to add increased patient care hours that were needed to serve their communities sufficiently.
"Since Dr. Cotter has joined our practice, we have only heard the best remarks from our patients who have received her care" says Dr. Steven Smoke.
Dr. Cotter examines patients on a rotational basis in all three locations: Buchanan, New Buffalo and Dowagiac, as Drs. Steven and Brenda Smoke continue to do.
"We are confident that Dr. Cotter will be a great asset to the local communities as she provides care through our practices" states Dr. Smoke.
The Smoke Family Vision Center is accepting new patients.
To learn more about eye health information, visit the American Optometric Web site at www.aoa.org.