“There’s nowhere you can be that isn’t where you’re meant to be.” – John Lennon
Dr. Mehul Patel will be the first to tell you that his life’s journey has taken him around the world and back, many times. One life experience has led to the next one and he is thrilled to practice ophthalmology in Florida.
He grew up in North Carolina and as an undergraduate at UNC – Chapel Hill, he had the opportunity to explore the world. Traveling to unknown places like East Timor enriched his learning, broadened his outlook and led to him pursuing a degree in global health at the University of Oxford.
From there, he went on to complete a year of research with Dr. Nathan Congdon in Hong Kong and China, whom he credits to introducing him to ophthalmology. The time spent in the Far East not only solidified his desire to become a physician, but also train to become an eye surgeon.
Dr. Patel completed medical school at UNC, followed by his internship in general surgery and then his ophthalmology residency at Howard University.
Dr. Mehul Patel Launches UCF Health Ophthalmology Division
He began his surgical practice, focused on cataract and glaucoma at UCF Health. There, he launched the practice’s ophthalmology division in their multi-specialty academic practice.
“While we started small with one person, no equipment or patients, what we truly had was an open canvas to build a thriving practice that focuses on the patient first,” he says. “We’re fortunate to now have a team of four people that assist in providing outstanding eye care for Central Floridians, while also being available to teach the next generation of physicians at UCF College of Medicine.”
Dr. Patel believes that practicing medicine well is achieved when the doctor reaches the patient on their level. Making sure patients understand the diagnosis and treatment is paramount. However, being available to the patient to answer their queries is what he truly believes should be at the heart of medical care.
“I always wanted my practice to avoid that assembly line feeling that ophthalmology is known for,” he says with a smile. “Each patient brings a diverse life experience and background, It’s worth savoring that interaction to provide the best ophthalmic care possible.”
Outside of the operating room, Dr. Patel enjoys exploring new countries, spending time with his family and playing tennis and basketball.
About UCF Health
At UCF Health, care is delivered by doctors who are training the next generation of doctors at the UCF College of Medicine. The practice offers primary and specialty care, providing patients with a team approach to their health care.
Mehul Patel, M.D., M.Sc.
9975 Tavistock Lakes Blvd.
Orlando, FL 32827
407.266.3627
UCFHealth.com