Description
About Dr. Jacob Rullo
Dr. Jacob Rullo is a dedicated Ophthalmologist, committed to providing exceptional medical and surgical eye care to patients of all ages. Practicing at Sault Area Hospital - Algoma Distri in Kingston, ON, he is a trusted provider of specialized eye care in the community. His practice adheres to the high standards set by the College of Physicians and Surgeons of Ontario (CPSO), ensuring that every patient receives safe, effective, and personalized treatment. As a comprehensive Ophthalmologist, he offers a full spectrum of services from routine eye examinations and vision correction to the management of complex eye diseases and surgical interventions. The clinic provides a full spectrum of eye care services, from routine vision checks to advanced surgical procedures, in a patient-friendly setting.
Dr. Rullo received his medical degree from the University of Toronto, Canada, and has been practicing as an Ophthalmologist since 2020, accumulating over four years of specialized experience. He is recognized as a RCPSC Specialist by the College of Physicians and Surgeons of Ontario (CPSO). His training and certifications ensure that he utilizes the latest techniques and evidence-based practices in eye care, providing his patients with the best possible outcomes.
His professional philosophy centers on preserving and improving vision through compassionate, state-of-the-art eye care. He is dedicated to educating patients about their eye health, involving them in treatment decisions, and utilizing advanced diagnostic and therapeutic technologies for precise and effective treatments. Dr. Rullo emphasizes early detection and proactive management of eye diseases to prevent vision loss. He values collaborative care and works closely with other healthcare professionals to ensure comprehensive patient well-being. All communication and care are provided in English, with a focus on clarity and understanding, ensuring patients feel comfortable and well-informed throughout their treatment journey.
Eye Conditions Addressed by Dr. Jacob Rullo
Dr. Jacob Rullo provides expert diagnosis and management for a wide range of eye conditions, including:
Refractive Errors and Vision Correction
Dr. Rullo addresses common eye conditions where the eye does not bend (refract) light properly, leading to blurred vision.
- Presbyopia: Age-related loss of the eye's ability to focus on close objects, typically becoming noticeable in the early to mid-40s.
- Myopia (Nearsightedness): Corrected with glasses, contact lenses, or refractive surgery (e.g., LASIK, PRK).
- Astigmatism: Often occurs in conjunction with myopia or hyperopia.
Cataracts and Lens Disorders
Dr. Rullo addresses conditions related to the clouding of the eye's natural lens (cataract) or other lens abnormalities.
- Dislocated Intraocular Lens (IOL) or Natural Lens: May require surgical repositioning, exchange, or suturing of the lens.
- Secondary Cataracts (Posterior Capsular Opacification): Clouding of the posterior lens capsule that can occur months or years after cataract surgery.
- Age-Related Cataracts: Clouding of the eye's natural lens that occurs as part of the aging process, leading to blurry vision, glare, and difficulty seeing at night.
Glaucoma Management
Dr. Rullo addresses early detection and lifelong management are crucial to preserving sight.
- Secondary Glaucoma (e.g., due to trauma, inflammation, steroids): Treatment involves managing the underlying cause and lowering eye pressure.
- Normal-Tension Glaucoma: Management focuses on lowering eye pressure further and addressing other potential risk factors.
- Primary Open-Angle Glaucoma (POAG): Regular eye exams are key for early detection.
This list is not exhaustive. For a comprehensive evaluation of your eye health, a consultation with Dr. Jacob Rullo is necessary.
Ophthalmology Services by Dr. Jacob Rullo
- Laser-Assisted Cataract Surgery (Femtosecond Laser): Potentially offers improved visual outcomes for select patients.
- Surgical Procedures for Glaucoma (Trabeculectomy, Glaucoma Drainage Devices/Shunts, MIGS): Minimally Invasive Glaucoma Surgery (MIGS) procedures, often combined with cataract surgery.
- YAG Laser Capsulotomy (for Secondary Cataract): Restores clear vision by creating an opening in the clouded lens capsule.
- Advanced Technology Intraocular Lenses (IOLs): Offering premium IOL options designed to reduce dependence on glasses after cataract surgery.
- Medical Management of Glaucoma (Prescription Eye Drops): Regular follow-up to assess treatment efficacy and side effects.
- Glaucoma Screening, Diagnosis, and Monitoring: Early detection and ongoing monitoring of glaucoma progression.
Note: This list provides an overview. Specific treatments are determined after a thorough eye examination and consultation with Dr. Rullo.
All ophthalmology services are provided in accordance with the standards of practice set by the College of Physicians and Surgeons of Ontario (CPSO) and relevant Canadian Ophthalmological Society (COS) and relevant subspecialty guidelines. A referral from a physician or optometrist may be required for consultation.
Practice Location & Contact
Dr. Rullo's primary eye clinic is situated in Kingston's vibrant Downtown Kingston, Queen's University Area, Sydenham Ward neighborhood. The clinic is conveniently located near Downtown Kingston, with accessible public transportation options via Kingston Transit. The facility is designed to be accessible and comfortable for all patients, providing a welcoming environment for comprehensive eye care. Patients can find convenient parking options in proximity to the clinic. Surgical procedures are often performed at Kingston Health Sciences Centre, also located in Kingston's central area, ensuring seamless access for pre- and post-operative care. Whether visiting for routine exams or advanced surgical interventions, patients experience professional and attentive service in a modern, patient-centered setting.
Frequently Asked Questions about Ophthalmology
- What are some common eye conditions treated by Dr. Rullo?
- As an Ophthalmologist, Dr. Rullo manages numerous eye problems. These frequently include prescribing glasses/contacts, performing cataract surgery, treating glaucoma with medications or lasers, managing retinal issues like macular degeneration and diabetic eye disease, and addressing infections or inflammations of the eye. providing comprehensive medical and surgical eye care, including the diagnosis and treatment of a wide range of eye diseases and vision problems.
- What is the difference between an Ophthalmologist like Dr. Rullo and an Optometrist?
- The key difference is that an Ophthalmologist, such as Dr. Rullo, is a physician and surgeon specializing in eye care, able to provide the full spectrum of medical and surgical treatments for eye diseases. Optometrists are primary eye care providers who conduct eye exams, prescribe glasses and contacts, and can diagnose and manage many eye conditions with medications or refer to an ophthalmologist for more complex issues or surgery. Both play vital roles in eye health.
- Are services from Dr. Rullo covered by provincial health insurance?
- Most medical and surgical eye care provided by Dr. Rullo for diagnosed eye conditions is covered under Ontario Health Insurance Plan (OHIP). This includes treatments for diseases like cataracts and glaucoma. Routine eye check-ups for vision testing (refraction) may not be covered for all age groups unless there's an underlying medical reason. Elective cosmetic procedures are generally not covered by provincial health insurance. Medically necessary eye exams and treatments for eye diseases like glaucoma or cataracts are typically covered by Ontario Health Insurance Plan (OHIP). Routine eye exams for glasses/contacts for adults (usually ages 19-64) may not be covered unless a specific medical condition affecting the eyes is present. Elective procedures such as cosmetic eyelid surgery or refractive laser surgery (LASIK/PRK) are generally not covered. It is recommended to verify coverage specifics with Dr. Rullo's office or Ontario Health Insurance Plan (OHIP).
- How does Dr. Rullo treat glaucoma?
- Dr. Rullo manages glaucoma with the goal of lowering intraocular pressure to prevent further optic nerve damage. Treatment options may include prescription eye drops, laser therapy (like SLT or LPI), or surgical procedures such as trabeculectomy, glaucoma drainage devices, or Minimally Invasive Glaucoma Surgery (MIGS). The specific approach depends on the type and severity of glaucoma.
- When should I see an Ophthalmologist like Dr. Rullo?
- A visit to Dr. Rullo is recommended for routine eye health check-ups, particularly if you have risk factors for eye diseases. Immediate attention is needed for symptoms such as sudden loss or blurring of vision, flashes of light, an increase in floaters, eye pain, or discharge. Your primary care physician or optometrist may also refer you for specialized medical or surgical eye care.
- What does an Ophthalmologist like Dr. Rullo specialize in?
- Dr. Rullo is an Ophthalmologist, a physician with extensive training in all aspects of eye health. He provides complete eye exams, diagnoses conditions like glaucoma, cataracts, and retinal diseases, and can perform complex eye surgeries. providing comprehensive medical and surgical eye care, including the diagnosis and treatment of a wide range of eye diseases and vision problems.
- Do I need a referral to see Dr. Rullo?
- Yes, a referral from a family doctor or optometrist is generally necessary to see Dr. Rullo for medical or surgical eye conditions covered by Ontario Health Insurance Plan (OHIP). This helps coordinate your care effectively. If you have an urgent eye problem, contact Dr. Rullo's office or seek emergency eye care as appropriate, as referral requirements may differ in emergencies. Please have your doctor's office or optometrist contact Dr. Rullo's clinic for referral instructions.
Practice & Licensing Information
Sault Area Hospital - Algoma Distri
G Wing Level 2, 166 Brock St, Medical Oncology
Kingston, ON K7L 5G2
Office Phone: (613) 544-3400
Dr. Rullo is a licensed Ophthalmologist regulated by the College of Physicians and Surgeons of Ontario (CPSO) under the Regulated Health Professions Act, 1991 and Medicine Act, 1991 in ON. A referral from a family physician or optometrist may be required for a consultation with Dr. Rullo, particularly for services covered by the Ontario Health Insurance Plan (OHIP).
Verify Dr. Rullo's registration with the College of Physicians and Surgeons of Ontario (CPSO): https://doctors.cpso.on.ca/DoctorDetails/Rullo-Jacob/0302990-106700