RL
Riley Lyons, MD
ATLANTA, GA
Ophthalmology
Accepting patients
Black Ophthalmologists
in Atlanta, GA
Black ophthalmologists: eye surgery and advanced eye disease care. Less than 3 percent of U.S. ophthalmologists are Black. Access is the core issue.
1 provider found
Maintained by the Black Health editorial team · Updated May 2026
1 provider found
Few Black Ophthalmologys listed in Atlanta, GA yet. Here is how to still get care.
Our directory is growing. In the meantime, the options below can connect you with care from verified Black ophthalmologys regardless of where you live.
What to know about Black Ophthalmology care in Atlanta
Ophthalmologists are MDs who perform eye surgery and treat advanced eye disease. Only about 2.5 percent of U.S. ophthalmologists are Black (AAMC, 2023). Given that Black Americans face dramatically higher rates of glaucoma, diabetic retinopathy, and cataracts, plus worse outcomes from each, access to ophthalmology is a straightforward equity issue.
What ophthalmologists cover
- Cataract surgery
- Glaucoma medical and surgical treatment
- Diabetic retinopathy management (injections, laser)
- Retinal detachment surgery
- Macular degeneration (wet AMD)
- Corneal transplants and keratoconus
- Pediatric ophthalmology and strabismus surgery
When to book
- Sudden vision loss or flashes and floaters (emergency)
- Diabetic retinopathy diagnosed by optometrist
- Pressures high despite glaucoma drops
- Cataracts affecting driving or reading
Advocacy prompts
- What are my options beyond eye drops for glaucoma?
- Do I need a retinal specialist for my diabetic retinopathy?
- What are the premium IOL options for my cataract surgery?
Other specialties in Atlanta
Related conditions
- Glaucoma , Higher incidence and earlier onset in Black adults vs white adults
Frequently asked questions
How do I find a Black Ophthalmologist in Atlanta, GA?
Use the search and filter tools on this page to browse verified Black Ophthalmologists in Atlanta, GA. You can filter by telehealth, insurance accepted, and whether the Ophthalmologist is accepting new patients. If the list is short, consider virtual options as many Black Ophthalmologists serve patients statewide or nationwide.
Are there virtual or telehealth Black Ophthalmologists serving Atlanta, GA?
Yes. Many Black Ophthalmologists offer telehealth appointments in addition to or instead of in-person visits. Use the telehealth filter on this page to see providers who offer virtual care, which can expand your options significantly if local availability is limited.
Why does seeing a Black Ophthalmologist matter?
Research consistently shows that racial concordance between patients and their care team is associated with better communication, greater trust, and improved health outcomes. Patients who share a racial or cultural background with their Ophthalmologist often report feeling more understood and are more likely to follow through on care plans.
What should I ask a Ophthalmologist before working with them?
Ask whether they are accepting new patients, what insurance they accept, and whether they offer telehealth or in-person visits. It is also worth asking about their experience with conditions relevant to you, their communication style, and how they handle after-hours questions or urgent concerns.
Do Black Ophthalmologists in Atlanta, GA accept insurance or Medicaid?
Many Black Ophthalmologists listed in this directory accept major insurance plans and some accept Medicaid or Medicare. Use the insurance and Medicaid filters on this page to narrow your search. Contact the provider directly to confirm your specific plan is accepted before scheduling.
Know a Black ophthalmology in Atlanta?
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