Dr. Richard James Orr – Ophthalmologist | Owen Sound, ON

Dr. Richard James Orr is a dedicated Ophthalmologist, committed to providing exceptional medical and surgical eye care to patients of all ages. Practicing at a specialized eye clinic in Owen Sound in Owen Sound, ON, he is a trusted provider of specialized eye care in the community. Dr. Orr adheres to the high standards set by the College of Physicians and Surgeons of Ontario (CPSO), ensuring that his practice maintains the utmost professionalism and quality. His role encompasses a comprehensive range of services, including the diagnosis and treatment of a wide spectrum of eye diseases and vision problems. The clinic provides a full spectrum of eye care services, from routine vision checks to advanced surgical procedures, in a patient-friendly setting.

Dr. Orr graduated with a Medical Degree from Schulich School of Medicine and Dentistry (Canada). He has been practicing as an Ophthalmologist since 1996, accumulating over 28 years of specialized experience in the field. He is recognized as a RCPSC Specialist by the College of Physicians and Surgeons of Ontario (CPSO), reflecting his expertise and commitment to ongoing professional development. His certifications include comprehensive training in ophthalmology, ensuring he is well-equipped to manage complex eye conditions with the latest techniques and technologies.

With a professional philosophy rooted in preserving and improving vision through compassionate, state-of-the-art eye care, Dr. Orr is dedicated to educating his patients about their eye health and involving them in treatment decisions. He utilizes advanced diagnostic and therapeutic technologies for precise and effective treatments, emphasizing early detection and management of eye diseases to prevent vision loss. His approach is collaborative, often working alongside other healthcare professionals to ensure comprehensive patient well-being. Dr. Orr offers all patient communication and care in English, fostering clear and supportive interactions for his patients in Owen Sound.

Dr. Richard Orr provides expert diagnosis and management for a wide range of eye conditions, including:

Refractive Errors and Vision Correction

Dr. Orr addresses management of nearsightedness (myopia), farsightedness (hyperopia), astigmatism, and presbyopia (age-related farsightedness).

• Myopia (Nearsightedness): A condition where distant objects appear blurry because the eye focuses images in front of the retina instead of on the retina.
• Presbyopia: A natural part of the aging process of the eye.
• Astigmatism: Often occurs in conjunction with myopia or hyperopia.

Cataracts and Lens Disorders

Dr. Orr addresses a leading cause of reversible vision impairment, especially in older adults.

• Age-Related Cataracts: Surgical removal and lens implant is a highly effective treatment.
• Secondary Cataracts (Posterior Capsular Opacification): Commonly referred to as an 'after-cataract'.
• Dislocated Intraocular Lens (IOL) or Natural Lens: May require surgical repositioning, exchange, or suturing of the lens.

Glaucoma Management

Dr. Orr addresses medical, laser, and surgical treatments aimed at lowering eye pressure to prevent further optic nerve damage.

• Normal-Tension Glaucoma: Diagnosis can be challenging.
• Secondary Glaucoma (e.g., due to trauma, inflammation, steroids): Can be open-angle or angle-closure.
• 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. Richard Orr is necessary.

• Surgical Procedures for Glaucoma (Trabeculectomy, Glaucoma Drainage Devices/Shunts, MIGS): Incisional surgeries to create new drainage pathways for eye fluid, such as trabeculectomy or implantation of glaucoma drainage devices (shunts/valves).
• YAG Laser Capsulotomy (for Secondary Cataract): Restores clear vision by creating an opening in the clouded lens capsule.
• Emergency Eye Care Services: Prompt management of conditions like corneal abrasions, chemical burns, or acute angle-closure glaucoma.
• Cataract Evaluation and Surgical Management: Discussion of IOL options (monofocal, toric, multifocal, extended depth of focus) to meet individual visual needs.
• Advanced Technology Intraocular Lenses (IOLs): Includes toric IOLs for astigmatism correction and multifocal/EDOF IOLs for a range of vision.
• Diagnosis and Management of Common Eye Conditions: Evaluation and treatment plans for a wide range of eye problems including dry eyes, conjunctivitis, styes, and foreign body removal.

Note: This list provides an overview. Specific treatments are determined after a thorough eye examination and consultation with Dr. Orr.

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.

Dr. Orr practices at a specialized eye clinic located in the Owen Sound neighborhood of Owen Sound, ON. The clinic is situated close to various medical facilities and optical services, making it convenient for patients to access comprehensive eye care. It is well-connected via local public transit routes, ensuring easy accessibility. The eye clinic is designed to be accessible and comfortable for all patients, with ample parking available nearby, including some accessible spots. Patients can expect a welcoming environment dedicated to their eye health and well-being.

What is the difference between an Ophthalmologist like Dr. Orr and an Optometrist?

The key difference is that an Ophthalmologist, such as Dr. Orr, 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.

When should I see an Ophthalmologist like Dr. Orr?

A visit to Dr. Orr 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.

Do I need a referral to see Dr. Orr?

For most consultations with an Ophthalmologist like Dr. Orr that are covered by provincial health insurance (e.g., Ontario Health Insurance Plan (OHIP)), a referral from your family physician or an optometrist is typically required. This ensures that your visit is appropriate and that Dr. Orr receives relevant medical history. For some urgent eye conditions or specific services, direct access might be possible, but it's always best to check with Dr. Orr's office regarding their referral policy. The clinic's fax number for referrals is typically (519) 371-5631.

How does Dr. Orr treat glaucoma?

For glaucoma, Dr. Orr will develop a personalized treatment plan which can involve daily eye drop medications to reduce eye pressure, in-office laser treatments to improve fluid drainage, or surgical interventions if medications and lasers are insufficient to control the pressure and protect your vision.

Are services from Dr. Orr covered by provincial health insurance?

Most medical and surgical eye care provided by Dr. Orr 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. Orr's office or Ontario Health Insurance Plan (OHIP).

a specialized eye clinic in Owen Sound
Suite 403, 1360 20th Street East
Owen Sound, ON N4K 5N3

Office Phone: (519) 371-8096 | Office Fax: (519) 371-5631

Dr. Orr 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. Orr, particularly for services covered by the Ontario Health Insurance Plan (OHIP).

Verify Dr. Orr's registration with the College of Physicians and Surgeons of Ontario (CPSO): https://doctors.cpso.on.ca/DoctorDetails/Orr-Richard-James/0049800-63778