Business Details
50+ Years
experience
Expert Retinal Care in Chicago Since 1975
Illinois Retina Associates has been a leader in retinal care since 1975, specializing in the diagnosis and treatment of retinal, macular, and vitreous diseases. Our team of nationally recognized specialists combines decades of collective experience with a commitment to advancing research through participation in over 147 clinical trials. With 13 locations across Chicagoland and Northwest Indiana, we provide accessible, patient-centered care using cutting-edge diagnostic technologies and treatment modalities.Our physicians maintain dual roles as clinicians and researchers, ensuring patients receive both established and emerging therapies. The practice's administrative team supports seamless operations across all locations, prioritizing patient satisfaction and efficient referral processes.
Services
Diabetic Retinopathy
Age-Related Macular Degeneration
Vitrectomy
Retinal Laser Treatment
Fluorescein Angiography
Optical Coherence Tomography
Scleral Buckle
Injections
Uveitis Management
Clinical Trials
Details
- Year established: 1975
Highlights and features
- 49 years of specialized retinal care experience
- Participated in 147+ clinical trials advancing eye care
- 409 years of combined physician expertise
- 13 convenient locations across Chicagoland
- Offers full-service diagnostics and surgical interventions
What people say
Exceptional bedside manner
Thorough diagnostic process
Efficient appointment scheduling
Knowledgeable specialists
Professional staff
Services
Diabetic Retinopathy
Our specialists provide comprehensive management for diabetes-related retinal damage using advanced imaging and treatment technologies. We offer personalized treatment plans combining anti-VEGF injections, laser therapy, and vitrectomy procedures. With decades of clinical experience and participation in major research studies, we help patients preserve vision through early detection and intervention.
Age-Related Macular Degeneration
We deliver cutting-edge care for both dry and wet forms of macular degeneration through regular monitoring and innovative therapies. Our treatment options include intravitreal injections, photodynamic therapy, and participation in clinical trials for emerging treatments. Our team focuses on slowing disease progression and maintaining quality of life for patients.
Vitrectomy
Our surgeons perform advanced vitrectomy procedures to treat retinal detachments, macular holes, and vitreous hemorrhages. Using state-of-the-art microincision techniques, we remove cloudy vitreous and repair retinal damage with minimal recovery time. Each procedure is tailored to the patient's specific condition and visual needs.
Optical Coherence Tomography
We utilize high-resolution OCT technology to create detailed cross-sectional retinal images for accurate diagnosis and treatment planning. This non-invasive imaging helps monitor conditions like macular edema and glaucoma progression. Our technicians ensure precise image capture and immediate physician interpretation.
Clinical Trials
As active participants in over 147 clinical trials, we provide access to investigational treatments for retinal diseases. Our research team follows strict protocols to evaluate new therapies for AMD, diabetic retinopathy, and uveitis while maintaining patient safety. Eligible patients can access potential breakthrough treatments before general availability.
People
Robert Lea
CEO
Robert Lea has served as CEO since 2022, overseeing 13 locations and 150+ employees. With prior leadership roles in ophthalmology practices, he brings 15+ years of healthcare administration experience. He holds an MBA from UNLV and focuses on operational excellence while maintaining patient-centered care.
Rossana Agron
District Manager
Rossana Agron manages three Chicago-area locations with 30+ years of practice experience. Starting as front-desk staff, she advanced through operational roles while developing expertise in medical office management. She coordinates clerical operations and external communications for the practice.
Lynn Ruiz
District Manager
Lynn Ruiz oversees Flossmoor and Orland Park locations as district manager since 2008. She serves as Safety and Privacy Officer while maintaining billing operations expertise. With 15+ years in healthcare administration, she ensures compliance with regulatory standards across all practice locations.
Mary Frederick
Central Billing Office Manager
Mary Frederick manages billing operations since joining in 1999. She coordinates complex insurance billing across five Medicare regions and numerous payers. With experience in both clinical and administrative roles, she ensures accurate financial processing while maintaining compliance with billing regulations.
Debbie Zelinski
District Manager
Debbie Zelinski manages Joliet and Hinsdale locations with 25+ years of practice experience. She oversees patient records storage and serves on quality improvement committees. Her background includes clinical roles and financial management, providing comprehensive operational leadership for two key locations.
Questions
What retinal conditions do you treat?
We treat all retinal conditions including AMD, diabetic retinopathy, macular holes, retinal detachments, uveitis, and ocular oncology cases using advanced diagnostic and treatment technologies.
Do you offer same-day appointments?
We prioritize urgent cases and often accommodate same-day appointments for retinal emergencies like sudden vision changes or trauma assessment.
Are clinical trials available to patients?
Yes, we actively participate in clinical research with access to investigational treatments for various retinal diseases through our dedicated research department.
What diagnostic technologies do you use?
Our diagnostic tools include OCT imaging, fluorescein angiography, ultrasound, and retinal photography for comprehensive evaluation of retinal health.
How do I prepare for a retinal exam?
Bring current medications list, previous eye records, and allow 2-3 hours for comprehensive exams. Pupils will be dilated during standard retinal evaluations.
Do you accept my insurance?
We participate in most major insurance plans. Contact our billing office to verify coverage details for your specific insurance provider before your appointment.
