Catherine Kerr-Niermann, O.D., joined the Wilmer Eye Institute, Johns Hopkins Medicine in January as an instructor in the low vision division. Kerr-Niermann specializes in treating low vision conditions. She sees patients at Wilmer’s East Baltimore, Columbia and Green Spring Station locations and has joined the Lions Low Vision Research and Rehabilitation Center.

What attracted you to the field of optometry?

I first considered optometry as an undergraduate chemistry major. I wanted to pursue a field that balanced science with service. Low vision rehabilitation fulfilled both. As a child, I witnessed my grandmother suffer from vision loss and, living on a farm in southern Illinois, she did not have access to vision rehabilitation services. I aim to help countless others by providing the services she did not have access to.

What are your research interests?

My research interests focus on low vision rehabilitation, and particularly on understanding the patient experience to maximize patient outcomes. My most recent research project involved creating customized simulator glasses for parents of children with visual impairment to help them understand how their child sees the world.

What drew you to Wilmer?

I was drawn to Wilmer not only for its stellar reputation, but for the chance to be surrounded by compassionate, creative and devoted practitioners and researchers in vision rehabilitation. Wilmer has a collaborative environment that sparks innovation in patient centered care. I am immensely thankful to be joining the Wilmer team.

What are you working on right now and how will it contribute to the advancement of optometry?

I am currently pursuing my Master of Science in health communication. I am pursuing this program with my patients in mind, as good communication is at the core of positive health outcomes.

Where do you see opportunities for advancement or innovation in your specialty?

Technology in vision rehabilitation is advancing at a substantial pace. Patients who were disappointed with the lack of adaptations five or 10 years ago are now stunned at their new ability to read and complete daily life tasks with the help of electronic equipment.