Midwest Eye Institute was founded in 1982 by Dr. Donald L. Wilson at the suggestion of a former patient. Methodist Hospital, under the direction of Dr. Frank Lloyd, was a strong supporter in the early years. The Midwest Eye name was chosen for its regional appeal.
The purpose of the Institute has always been to provide sub-specialized eye care for patients in Indiana and surrounding areas, covering a wide spectrum of medical problems. The original intention was to augment the medical care already provided by the local ophthalmic community and the Indiana University Department of Ophthalmology. The Institute began with five founding members and has enjoyed continued expansion over time. It now includes four times that number of sub-specialized physicians, as well as a large support staff, and provides a wide variety of diagnostic and therapeutic services.
In the 1990’s, the Institute’s expansion and growth led to a move from its original location on the campus of Methodist Hospital to a larger facility on the north side of Indianapolis. In 1999, Midwest Eye Institute also opened a satellite location on the south side of Indianapolis. That clinic office is currently located in Greenwood, Indiana. Over time, services provided by the Institute’s physicians and surgeons have expanded as well. A few years ago, the number of patient visits exceeded 60,000 in the single year. In late 2008, Midwest Eye Institute once again relocated. This time to a new facility at 10300 North Illinois Street, occupying just under 40,000 square feet of clinic, office and administrative space. Ophthalmic surgery suites were established at the new location, allowing extremely efficient patient care.
In addition to providing high quality sub-specialized clinical and surgical care, Midwest Eye Institute has remained committed to academic excellence and research. Since its inception, the Institute has introduced a number of technical innovations to the state of Indiana, including new ceiling-mounted ophthalmic surgical units with microscopes, the first YAG laser and first excimer laser, first multifocal electroretinogram instrument, and the first rare earth magnet.
Many of the Institute’s physicians maintain active roles in teaching at local, national and international levels. A number also actively participate in research, including a variety of clinical trials and drug studies. The Donald Wilson Ophthalmic Library has remained a valuable resource for academic work, while the Midwest Eye Foundation has been key to the support of the research activities.