Dr. Stephen Pullen, OD

Dr. Stephen Pullen, OD is an optometrist dedicated to empowering patients with proactive, comprehensive Optometric care. As a partner in preventive health featured on weprevent.org, he practices at his clinic in Jacksonville, FL, and is registered with The Florida Board of Medicine, practicing under the Florida Statutes, Title XXXII, Chapter 458 (Medical Practice). His focus on prevention extends beyond routine vision correction; 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.

Dr. Stephen Pullen, OD is an optometrist in Jacksonville, FL. He is accepting new patients. He completed rigorous medical training from recognized institutions, and his approach to care emphasizes collaborative, evidence-based medicine, fostering a supportive environment where patients feel empowered to take an active role in their long-term health. He is committed to providing accessible and effective care, and is dedicated to ensuring that every patient receives personalized attention. Dr. Stephen OD provides consultations primarily in English. Call (904) 262-2249 to schedule your appointment and begin your proactive health journey.

A key part of the WePrevent mission is building your personalized prevention roadmap. Dr. Stephen 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. Stephen 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. Stephen 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:

• Ocular Syphilis: Protecting your vision involves awareness of sexually transmitted infections like syphilis; early detection through regular eye check-ups can significantly reduce the risk of ocular complications.
• Vitreous Diseases: Regular eye exams are your best defense against the vision-threatening complications of vitreous diseases; early detection allows for prompt treatment and helps preserve your sight.
• Juvenile Glaucoma: Protecting your child's sight involves proactive eye care; early detection of juvenile glaucoma through regular checkups can significantly reduce the risk of vision loss.
• Stye: Preventing styes involves good hygiene practices like washing your hands frequently and avoiding touching your eyes; early detection through self-examination and professional check-ups is key.
• Retrobulbar Neuritis: Don't ignore sudden vision changes; retrobulbar neuritis, an inflammation affecting the optic nerve, can lead to serious vision loss if not addressed promptly. Preventive care includes routine eye examinations to catch such issues early.
• Bacterial Conjunctivitis: While many cases of bacterial conjunctivitis resolve on their own, early detection and treatment are essential to prevent potential complications like corneal ulcers or other infections.
• Optic Nerve Coloboma With Renal Disease: Protecting your eye health and kidney health is intertwined: because optic nerve coloboma, a condition present at birth, can be linked to kidney disease, regular comprehensive eye examinations are vital for preventative healthcare.

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. Stephen OD offers a range of key preventive screenings and services designed to provide crucial insights into your health and support your well-being:

• Humphrey Visual Field Test for Glaucoma: Take a proactive step towards protecting your sight with a Humphrey Visual Field Test, a comprehensive screening that helps detect glaucoma early, before significant vision loss occurs.
• Strabismus Surgery (Co-management): Proactive co-management of strabismus surgery helps prevent future vision problems and ensures your child's eyes work together effectively.
• Eyelash Epilation: As part of a comprehensive eye exam, the careful examination of your eyelashes can help detect early signs of infections, allergies, or other eyelid disorders.
• ICD Monitoring: Take charge of your eye health with routine ICD monitoring; this simple test helps your optometrist identify subtle changes that could indicate developing glaucoma.
• Pterygium Surgery (Co-management): Partnering with your eye doctor for pterygium surgery co-management ensures the best possible results and helps prevent future problems.
• Minimally Invasive Valve Surgery: Take a proactive step towards preserving your vision by undergoing minimally invasive valve surgery, which can help prevent or manage certain eye conditions that might otherwise lead to vision loss.
• Eye Examination: Take charge of your eye health with a regular eye exam; it's a crucial step in preventing blindness and maintaining clear vision for years to come.

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. Stephen 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 monitored their health, significantly reducing the risk of ocular syphilis complications and gaining peace of mind.
• By scheduling regular eye exams, a patient proactively addressed potential vitreous diseases, gaining peace of mind knowing early detection could help preserve their vision.

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. Stephen OD:

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

An Optometrist (OD) is a primary eye care provider who performs comprehensive eye exams, prescribes glasses and contact lenses, and manages many eye conditions. They differ from Ophthalmologists (MDs), who are medical doctors and eye surgeons.

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

A comprehensive eye exam every one to two years is crucial, even if your vision is good. These exams aren't just for checking your eyesight; they help detect silent, vision-threatening diseases like glaucoma and diabetic retinopathy, often before symptoms appear. Early detection allows for prompt treatment and helps maintain optimal eye health.

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

Yes, a comprehensive eye exam can detect other health problems. The eye is the only place where blood vessels can be viewed directly without surgery, allowing our doctors to see early signs of systemic diseases like diabetes, high blood pressure, and even certain cancers or autoimmune diseases.

What is Age-Related Macular Degeneration (AMD)?

Age-related macular degeneration (AMD) is a leading cause of vision loss in older adults, affecting the macula, the part of the retina responsible for sharp, central vision. There are "dry" and "wet" forms, and regular eye exams are crucial for early detection and management to preserve vision.

What is an OCT scan?

An OCT scan is an advanced imaging technology, similar to ultrasound, that uses light to create incredibly detailed, cross-sectional pictures of your retina and optic nerve. Dr. Stephen OD uses this technology to detect and monitor diseases like glaucoma and macular degeneration with precision.

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. Stephen OD can diagnose and monitor cataracts to ensure proper care.

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

No, it is unsafe and illegal to purchase contact lenses online without a comprehensive eye exam. Contact lenses are medical devices that sit directly on your eye, and a proper fitting and annual exam with Dr. Stephen OD is essential to ensure a safe and correct fit, preventing potential eye damage and serious infections.

I have something in my eye. Should I come here first?

Yes, absolutely. For issues like eye infections, corneal scratches, or foreign objects, an optometrist is the ideal first point of contact. We are equipped to diagnose and treat these urgent issues, often preventing a long and costly visit to the emergency room.

11945 San Jose Blvd Ste 202
Jacksonville FL 32223
Phone: (904) 262-2249

Dr. Stephen Pullen, 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): 1801853296

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. Stephen 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.