Our Team

Dr. Derek Richardson is a board-certified, residency-trained optometrist with over a decade of experience delivering personalized, high-quality eye care. He earned a B.S. in Biochemistry from Florida State University and graduated with honors from Nova Southeastern University’s College of Optometry, finishing 3rd in his class. He completed a residency in Primary Eye Care at the Orlando VA Medical Center.

Dr. Richardson previously served as lead optometrist at the Bay Pines VA Medical Center, one of the nation’s largest VA eye clinics. There, he provided advanced contact lens fittings including scleral, gas-permeable, and hybrid lenses for patients with keratoconus, post-surgical corneas, and other corneal conditions. He also brings extensive experience in the diagnosis and management of ocular disease, dry eye treatment, and post-operative care.

In addition to patient care, Dr. Richardson has trained future optometrists as an Adjunct Assistant Professor for several optometry schools and served as Vice President of the Pinellas Optometric Association.

He believes in listening carefully, identifying the root cause of vision problems, and customizing care to each patient’s needs. Outside the clinic, Dr. Richardson enjoys kayaking, tennis, travel, and time with his wife and daughters.

Dr. Ankit Patel is a board-certified, residency-trained optometrist who has proudly served the Sarasota and Manatee communities since 2014. He earned his B.S. in Biology from the University of South Florida and received his Doctor of Optometry degree with honors from Nova Southeastern University. He completed a residency in Primary Eye Care at the Bay Pines VA Medical Center, gaining advanced experience in managing complex ocular conditions.

Dr. Patel provides thorough eye health exams and treats a broad range of eye conditions, including glaucoma, macular degeneration, diabetic retinopathy, dry eye, eye infections, keratoconus, cataracts, and ocular allergies. He also has a strong focus on contact lenses-fitting multifocal, monovision, and custom lenses using the latest designs and materials to maximize vision and comfort.

He is an active member of the American Optometric Association, Florida Optometric Association, Manasota Optometric Society, and the Beta Sigma Kappa Honors Society. He is also affiliated with the Vision Source network of private practice optometrists.

Dr. Patel takes pride in delivering personalized, compassionate care tailored to each patient’s unique needs and lifestyle. His goal is to help every patient achieve and preserve their best vision and long-term eye health.

Dr. Joseph Miller is a board-certified, residency-trained optometrist with nearly 20 years of experience in comprehensive eye care. He earned his B.S. in Biology from the University of Nebraska at Omaha and completed his Doctor of Optometry degree at Indiana University School of Optometry in 2006. He went on to complete a residency in Primary Care and Ocular Disease at the Bay Pines VA Medical Center in St. Petersburg, FL.

Dr. Miller brings extensive experience in diagnosing and managing a wide spectrum of ocular diseases, including glaucoma, diabetic retinopathy, macular degeneration, and post-surgical care. He is committed to delivering tailored care that addresses the individual needs of each patient, combining clinical precision with a compassionate approach.

In addition to his clinical work, Dr. Miller has held leadership roles that reflect his dedication to advancing optometry. He is a past President of the Pinellas Optometric Association and served as Residency Director at the Bay Pines VA Medical Center, where he helped train the next generation of optometrists.

Dr. Miller is passionate about helping his patients preserve their vision and eye health through comprehensive, personalized care.