Our history

Phillips Eye Institute was the vision of many people, designed to function as a free standing eye specialty center associated with Mount Sinai Medical Center. It was developed by and for ophthalmologists. The dream of creating this unique facility was realized because of the persistence, determination and resourcefulness of a large group of people.

Jay Phillips was the main benefactor of Mount Sinai Hospital and a strong supporter of Mount Sinai's Division of Ophthalmology. Because of his generous philanthropic support, Phillips Eye Institute bears his name.

Today

Phillips Eye Institute is the third largest eye specialty hospital (in patient volume) in the United States. Dedicated to the diagnosis and treatment of eye diseases and disorders, Phillips Eye Institute draws patients from a five state region to be treated by a medical staff of more than 170 Ophthalmologists.

PEI offers an extensive array of specialty services from diagnostic tests and vision rehabilitation to laser eye treatments and specialized eye surgery.

News releases

Phillips Eye Institute Newsroom

2012 Statistics

Read about quality and safety outcomes in Phillips Eye Institute's Outcomes Report.

Leadership

	Joan Arbach Interim President and Director, Service Excellence Previous experience: Eitel Hospital; Willow Street Center Education: BS - University of Minnesota, Education; Post-graduate course work - St. Mary's University First year with Phillips Eye Institute: 1993
	Beverly Fritz Director, Phillips Eye Institute Foundation Previous experience: Director of Foundation and Education, Saint Paul Area Chamber of Commerce; Education Manager, Joint Commission on allied Health Personnel in Ophthalmology; Director of Community Education, West St. Paul/Mendota Heights School District; Manager of Adult Basic Education; Teacher, Minneapolis Public Schools Education: BA - Macalester College; MA - University of St. Thomas First year with Phillips Eye Institute: 2010
	David Schneiderhan Director, Physician Relationships Previous experience: Private practice, Hastings Optical Co.; Director, Eye Services, Allina Medical Clinic Education: BA – Luther College, Management; MA – St. Mary's University of Minnesota, Management and Health and Human Services Administration First year with Phillips Eye Institute: 2000
	Chris Verdon Director, Finance Previous experience: Currently is also director, Finance at Abbott Northwestern Hospital; project manager with Allina Health Strategy and Business Development; clinical social worker, Regions Hospital Education: BA - Social Welfare; Masters - Social Work, Masters in Business Administration - Finance First year with Phillips Eye Institute: 2010
	Marge Watry, MBA, RN Director, Patient Care Chief Nursing Officer Previous experience: Manager, Oncology Clinic and Infusion Center at Fairview Southdale Hospital; director, Oncology Service Line at HealthPartners; director, Oncology Services at Virginia Piper Cancer Institute, Abbott Northwestern Hospital Education: BSN - University of Minnesota; MBA - University of Minnesota First year with Phillips Eye Institute: 2012

What types of services are offered at Phillips Eye Institute?

Phillips Eye Institute has the equipment, technology, physicians and staff to address all types of eye health issues including those that require surgery, maintaining low vision, or diagnosing an issue. Whether it is a routine procedure or monitoring a complex disorder, Phillips Eye Institute is here to ensure patients receive the right care at the right time. Learn more about our services here.

My eye doctor said that nothing can be done to improve my vision. Can you help?

Phillips Eye Institute's Low Vision Services can help most people who are not totally blind. There are many diseases and disorders that cause irreversible vision loss but not total blindness. We can help these people make the most of their remaining vision. Specially trained staff work to teach patients how to use the latest equipment and computer technology to enhance their vision. Call 612-775-8866 for more information.

Is refractive surgery or LASIK surgery available at the Institute? How much does it cost?

Yes, physicians affiliated with Phillips Eye Institute have done thousands of laser vision correction procedures, including LASIK, LASEK, PRK and others. We offer the latest technology on the market. The cost varies, but is usually around $1,750 per eye. Some physicians offer special financing options. Call 612-775-8842 or 1-888-301-0021 for more information or a physician recommendation. Learn more.

What types of insurance does Phillips Eye Institute accept?

Phillips Eye Institute accepts most types of insurance. Check with your insurance provider to determine for certain whether a procedure is covered. Elective procedures such as laser vision correction (LASIK) and cosmetic are usually not covered by insurance.

Healthy Communities Magazine

Healthy Communities Magazine is the Allina Health community newsletter. This edition is sent to nearly 200,000 homes in Minneapolis and nearby southern and western suburbs.

It includes patient stories, health awareness articles and public education classes and seminars related to the Allina Health clinics, hospitals and physicians in the West Metro area.

For more information, or to request copies of Healthy Communities, call 1-866-904-9962.

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