2023 Health Care Champions Specialty Provider: Dr. Sandra Rice

Dr. Sandra Rice emphasizes that although optometry is a specialty area of health care, she prioritizes the overall well-being of her patients.

In her work as an associate optometrist at The Vision Clinic PC, Rice prescribes glasses and contact lenses to her patients, while also identifying and treating ocular diseases. She recognizes the importance of ocular health, especially for children, when trying to accomplish day-to-day tasks.

“I see many pediatric patients each week and am passionate about making sure every child has the ability to see well so they can be successful in school,” says Rice.

Even though Rice treats patients of all ages, there has been a significant increase in nearsightedness among children and teenagers, and she says a simple eye exam can make a big difference to a child who may be struggling with their vision.

“Not only am I very knowledgeable on ocular disease and management, but I have compassion for patients diagnosed with any eye disease. I take the time to discuss the condition and treatment, as well as answer any questions the patient may have,” Rice says. “I do my best each day to show empathy to my patients, no matter how crazy that day may be, and I think all of my patients can feel that.”

After earning a bachelor’s degree in biology at East Carolina University, she went on to earn a doctorate in optometry from Southern College of Optometry. Rice also completed externships with Advanced Eye Care in Oklahoma and Southern College of Optometry in Tennessee and a Department of Veterans Affairs hospital in Memphis, Tennessee.

“My professional motivation stems from the profound impact I can have on someone’s life by enhancing their vision and overall eye health,” says Rice. “I love that each day presents new challenges and opportunities to serve those around me, making my job incredibly rewarding.”

Another aspect of Rice’s career that she values is fostering professional relationships with the community and other health care providers. She has served as president of the Greater Ozarks Optometric Society and as an active member of Missouri Optometric Society, and the American Optometric Society since 2017.  Additionally, she has been an active member and service committee member of Rotary Club of Springfield Sunrise since 2019 and the club’s local service projects chair, 2022-23.

Rice says these civic engagements not only help her to expand her role in her community, but also provide the opportunities necessary to coordinate appropriate health care and improve the quality of health care in the ocular field.

“We are constantly having to make referrals for surgery or call other area providers to co-manage systemic health conditions,” she says. “It is crucial that optometrists are in constant communication with other health care providers to best serve our patients.”