by Satina Richardson 

A new partnership between the UAB School of Optometry and Cooper Green Mercy Health Services, an affiliate of the UAB Health System, expanded access to eye care for Jefferson County residents. 

The partnership fosters collaboration between UAB Optometry and Cooper Green Ophthalmology, creating a lasting impact on community health. By increasing access to eye care for Cooper Green patients and providing hands-on clinical experiences for optometry students, both organizations are committed to strengthening this relationship for the benefit of patients and the community. 

“We are always seeking clinic sites that offer unique patient experiences for our students,” said Elizabeth Steele, OD, FAAO, associate dean for clinical affairs. “Caring for patients at Cooper Green aligns with both of our missions.” 

The UAB School of Optometry and Cooper Green Mercy Health Services share a common commitment to improving lives through accessible, compassionate care. Both institutions emphasize community engagement, equity, and quality of life, underscoring UAB’s broader mission to advance health and well-being across the region. 

Steele and Laura Hurst, Cooper Green administrator, facilitated the collaboration. 

“Cooper Green has been growing, which means access to eye care was strained before they came on board,” Hurst said. “In the new space, we expanded the eye clinic footprint, making it perfect timing to bring in optometry services.”  

Mallory Wright, OD, assistant professor, serves as the lead attending doctor at the new clinic site. She oversees students and has focused on building relationships with other onsite healthcare providers, including ophthalmologists, to help patients experience a continuum of care.  

“I have really enjoyed being at Cooper Green with our students,” Wright said. “Every individual who works at the Eye Clinic and Cooper Green as a whole are so kind, welcoming and collaborative. “We all work together to provide the highest level of care for our patients. We are very grateful for the opportunity.”  

This partnership between the  optometry and ophthalmology teams has proven highly effective, ensuring patients receive comprehensive care through close collaboration and timely referrals, which Cooper Green leaders call a win for patients. According to Steele, Jay McCollum, MD, ophthalmologist, director of Emergency Services and Ocular Trauma at UAB Medicine/Cooper Green has fostered a welcoming, collaborative environment that elevates patient care while enriching the learning experience for future eye care professionals. 

“The relationship with the School of Optometry has been nothing but smooth and beneficial for our patients,” Hurst said. “Under Dr. McCollum, Dr. Steele, and Cooper Green’s group practice managers and Nursing leadership, it’s a near-perfect set-up!”