Dr. Michael Chermak, OD

Dr. Michael Chermak, OD is a dedicated Optometrist practicing at his clinic in Tampa, FL. As a partner in preventive health featured on weprevent.org, he is registered with The Florida Board of Medicine and practices under the Florida Statutes, Title XXXII, Chapter 458 (Medical Practice). He's committed to empowering patients with proactive, comprehensive Optometric care, recognizing that your optometrist is your primary partner in lifelong eye health, providing preventive care, vision correction, early disease detection, personalized health plans, and coordinating screenings to ensure your best possible vision and overall wellness. He serves all ages, from infants to seniors, and is passionate about fostering a collaborative relationship with each patient.

Dr. Michael Chermak, OD is an optometrist in Tampa, FL, dedicated to providing exceptional care within a supportive environment. His approach to care is deeply rooted in collaborative, evidence-based medicine, empowering patients to be active participants in their eye health journey. He understands that proactive measures are key to maintaining optimal vision and overall well-being. To confirm availability for new patients, please call (813) 908-2020. Dr. Michael OD provides consultations primarily in English.

A key part of the WePrevent mission is building your personalized prevention roadmap. Dr. Michael OD is a vital partner in this journey, focusing on proactive strategies to protect and enhance your long-term health.

By working together, you and Dr. Michael OD can create a clear, actionable plan to address your unique risk factors and health goals.

A proactive approach to health involves understanding and managing potential risks. Dr. Michael OD provides expert care for a range of conditions, focusing on early detection and effective management to support your long-term wellness. Common areas of focus include:

• Retinal Detachment: Retinal detachment, a serious condition where the retina separates from the back of your eye, can lead to vision loss if not detected and treated promptly, highlighting the importance of regular comprehensive eye exams.
• Map-Dot-Fingerprint Dystrophy: Managing Map-Dot-Fingerprint dystrophy involves regular monitoring and potentially specific treatments to mitigate its impact on your vision, emphasizing the benefits of proactive eye care.
• Primary Angle Closure Glaucoma: Protecting your sight from the irreversible damage of primary angle closure glaucoma starts with understanding your risk factors and scheduling regular eye checkups for early detection and treatment.
• Macular Dystrophy, Vitelliform, Adult-Onset: Early detection of adult-onset vitelliform macular dystrophy is vital; routine eye checkups help your eye doctor identify this condition and recommend strategies to manage vision loss.
• Eye Muscle Disorders: Eye muscle disorders can cause double vision or eye strain, but early detection through regular eye exams can help prevent further vision problems and improve your quality of life.
• Demodex Blepharitis: Demodex blepharitis is a common eyelid inflammation caused by tiny mites, and early detection through regular eye exams can prevent serious complications like vision impairment.
• Corneal Diseases: Protecting your cornea through regular eye exams helps detect corneal diseases early, preventing vision loss and discomfort.

This list highlights some common health concerns and is for informational purposes only. The best way to understand your personal health and create a prevention plan is to schedule a consultation. Accurate diagnosis and personalized treatment plans are developed based on individual patient evaluations.

Taking proactive steps is central to long-term health. Dr. Michael OD offers a range of key preventive screenings and services designed to provide crucial insights into your health and support your well-being:

• Retinal Laser Photocoagulation (Co-management): Protecting your vision starts with early detection: retinal laser photocoagulation is a treatment that helps address retinal damage and can prevent blindness.
• Cornea Transplant (Co-management): As part of your comprehensive eye care plan, cornea co-management provides specialized support and monitoring before and after your corneal transplant to achieve optimal results.
• Cataract Removal Surgery (Co-management): Proactively partnering with your surgeon, we ensure your cataract removal surgery goes smoothly and your vision is restored to its best.
• Visian Impantable Collamer Lens (ICL) (Co-management): Protect your long-term eye health with ICL co-management, ensuring seamless care and monitoring before, during, and after this vision correction procedure.
• Ptosis (Eyelids) Surgery (Co-management): Take control of your eye health by co-managing your ptosis surgery with us, allowing for early detection and treatment of any complications.
• Maze Procedure: Prevent vision loss by scheduling comprehensive eye exams that include tests to spot early signs of eye diseases.
• Medical and Surgical Management of Glaucoma (Medical part by OD, Surgical co-managed): Invest in your vision's future by undergoing medical and surgically co-managed glaucoma treatment – this helps catch and address glaucoma early, preventing further complications.

Service availability can change, and not all services listed may be appropriate for every patient. For a comprehensive understanding of all available services and to create your personalized screening plan, please schedule a consultation.

All medical services are provided in accordance with the standard scope of practice for Optometry Services in Florida.

Dr. Michael OD is dedicated to partnering with Caregivers to achieve their unique health objectives. The following examples illustrate how a proactive approach can make a tangible difference in a Patient's life:

• By scheduling regular eye exams, a patient proactively managed their eye health, significantly reducing the risk of retinal detachment and maintaining clear vision. This proactive approach provided peace of mind and ensured early detection, if needed.
• By scheduling routine eye exams and following a proactive eye care plan, a patient effectively managed the potential impact of Map-Dot-Fingerprint Dystrophy on their vision, ensuring a positive outlook for their future.

These scenarios are illustrative examples of positive health outcomes. Individual results may vary and depend on many factors specific to each patient. He will work with you to define and achieve your personal health goals.

Here are answers to some common questions about proactive Optometric care with Dr. Michael OD:

What is an Optometrist, and how are they different from an Ophthalmologist?

An optometrist, like Dr. Michael OD, is a primary eye care provider who performs comprehensive eye exams, prescribes glasses and contact lenses, and diagnoses and manages many eye conditions. Ophthalmologists, on the other hand, are medical doctors who can also perform eye surgery.

How often should I get a comprehensive eye exam, even if I see well?

Even if your vision is good, a comprehensive eye exam every one to two years is crucial. These exams aren't just for checking your vision; they help detect silent, vision-threatening diseases like glaucoma and diabetic retinopathy, often before symptoms appear. Early detection is key for preserving your eye health.

Can an eye exam detect other health problems in my body?

Yes, a comprehensive eye exam can detect early signs of systemic diseases like diabetes, high blood pressure, high cholesterol, and even certain cancers or autoimmune diseases. The eye is the only place where blood vessels can be viewed directly without surgery, allowing for important health screenings.

What is glaucoma and why is it called the 'silent thief of sight'?

Glaucoma is a disease that damages the optic nerve, often due to high pressure inside the eye. It's called the "silent thief" because it typically has no noticeable symptoms in its early stages, causing irreversible peripheral vision loss. Regular eye exams are the only way to detect glaucoma early and prevent vision loss.

Is it safe to buy contact lenses online without an exam?

No, it is unsafe and illegal to purchase contact lenses online without an eye exam. Contact lenses are medical devices that sit directly on your eye, and a proper fitting and annual exam with Dr. Michael OD is essential to ensure the lenses fit correctly and are not damaging your eye, which can prevent serious infections and vision loss.

What are the signs of a cataract?

Common signs of cataracts include blurry or dim vision, increased glare from lights, fading or yellowing of colors, and frequent changes in glasses prescription. Dr. Michael OD can diagnose and monitor cataracts to ensure proper care.

My eyes often feel dry and gritty. What can I do?

Dry eye is very common. Dr. Michael OD can diagnose the cause and recommend a personalized treatment plan, which may include prescription eye drops or in-office procedures, beyond just artificial tears, to improve comfort and prevent damage.

What is the role of an optometrist in managing cataract surgery?

Dr. Michael OD will diagnose your cataract, determine if surgery is necessary, and refer you to a trusted ophthalmologist. Following surgery, Dr. Michael OD will provide all essential post-operative care and vision correction follow-up.

13904 N Dale Mabry Hwy
Tampa FL 33618
Phone: (813) 908-2020

Dr. Michael Chermak, OD is regulated by the Florida Statutes, Title XXXII, Chapter 458 (Medical Practice) in Florida and is licensed by The Florida Board of Medicine.

National Provider Identifier (NPI): 1659094415

Registration can typically be verified through The Florida Board of Medicine website or by direct inquiry.

The information on this profile, provided by weprevent.org, is for general informational purposes and to help you connect with preventive health partners. It does not constitute direct medical advice from the physician named. Optometry Services like Dr. Michael OD are skilled in helping patients create proactive health plans. For urgent or life-threatening emergencies, please call 911 or visit the nearest emergency department. It is always recommended to maintain open communication with your optometry about all aspects of your health and your personalized prevention plan.