Happy one-year anniversary to the Vision Institute at the UPMC Mercy Pavilion!
Since its opening in May 2023, there have been 47,013 total patient visits, with 9,712 new patients. In May and June 2023, however, patient visits were at 50% expected capacity, with July seeing 75% capacity, due to acclimation to new patient flows and IT systems.
In the past year, there have been 6,171 total surgeries performed at the VI.
Looking back on the year, Dr. José-Alain Sahel, Chair of the Department of Ophthalmology, said that patient experience and the ability to attract clinical and research talent have exceeded his expectations. And while he expected the art program would be a nice initiative, he was surprised by its success; the Department has heard from multiple patients on how meaningful it is.
Regarding this one-year milestone, Dr. Sahel said, “It’s a major milestone, but lots more is expected.” As far as what there is to still do or improve, he said this includes “supporting the multiple very promising programs.”