Find a Specialist

Dr. Austin J. Woolley is a board-certified comprehensive ophthalmologist at Excel Eye Center, where he provides advanced medical and surgical care with a calm, collaborative approach. He specializes in advanced cataract surgery, using a range of intraocular lenses and surgical techniques to reduce astigmatism and presbyopia so patients can rely less on glasses. In addition to cataract care, he manages glaucoma, diabetic eye disease, macular degeneration, and ocular trauma, and helps patients address common refractive issues such as myopia and hyperopia. Dr. Woolley earned his medical degree at Case Western Reserve University School of Medicine, completed an internal medicine internship at MetroHealth Medical Center, and finished ophthalmology residency at the Stein Eye Institute (UCLA). He is fluent in Spanish and has authored research in peer-reviewed journals and textbook chapters on ocular anatomy and cataract surgery. Patients appreciate his clear communication and focus on helping them achieve a better quality of life through improved vision.

Dr. Nathan W. Law is a board-certified comprehensive ophthalmologist at Mountain View Eye Center. He joined the practice in 2020 and provides both medical and surgical eye care. Dr. Law performs cataract surgery and laser vision correction (LASIK and PRK), offers intravitreal injections for retinal conditions, and treats eyelid lesions and other common problems with in-office procedures and lasers. He completed his ophthalmology residency at Oregon Health & Science University after an internal-medicine internship at the University of Utah. He earned his medical degree from Baylor College of Medicine, where he graduated with honors and was inducted into Alpha Omega Alpha. He also holds a B.A. in Economics from Brigham Young University. Dr. Law is a Davis County native who enjoys building long-term relationships with patients. He tailors care plans to each person’s goals, explaining options clearly so patients can feel confident about their vision.

Dr. Derek Denney is a comprehensive ophthalmologist serving patients in St. George, Utah. A Utah native, he graduated with high honors from Weber State University, earned his medical degree from the Medical College of Wisconsin, and completed internship at Intermountain Medical Center followed by ophthalmology residency at Indiana University, where he gained broad experience in cataract surgery, glaucoma and retina care, and urgent eye problems. Dr. Denney provides full-spectrum medical and surgical eye care—from routine exams and cataract surgery to management of chronic conditions like diabetic retinopathy and age-related macular degeneration. He is committed to clear, friendly communication and works closely with each patient to tailor practical, evidence-based treatment plans that protect sight and fit life goals. He is proud to care for families in southern Utah and the surrounding communities.

Dr. Michael Burrow provides general ophthalmology, ocular surgery, and complete medical eye care for patients and families in Utah. He offers comprehensive exams and surgical care with a particular focus on cataract surgery, glaucoma management, and conditions that affect the corneal surface. Patients appreciate his thoughtful explanations and practical guidance for day-to-day eye health. A Utah native, Dr. Burrow studied biology at the University of Utah and earned his MD in the Physician-Scientist Training Program at the University of Pittsburgh School of Medicine. He completed a medicine internship and ophthalmology residency at the University of Utah’s John A. Moran Eye Center. His honors include selection to Alpha Omega Alpha and the Gold Humanism Honor Society. He enjoys caring for patients across the lifespan and aligning treatment with each person’s goals and activities.

Dr. Mubarik B. Mohamed is a cornea and external disease specialist completing fellowship training at the UNC School of Medicine. He previously served patients in Utah during ophthalmology residency at the University of Utah after earning his medical degree from The Ohio State University College of Medicine. As part of the cornea service, he evaluates and manages dry eye disease, corneal dystrophies, ocular surface disorders, infections, and injuries that affect the clarity and comfort of the eye. Working within a multidisciplinary academic team, Dr. Mohamed participates in advanced surgical care pathways for complex anterior segment problems. Patients may benefit from modern keratoplasty techniques and ocular surface reconstruction when appropriate, alongside thoughtful medical therapy and prevention strategies. He is committed to clear communication, practical treatment plans, and restoring the quality of vision that lets patients return to the activities they love.

Dr. Erica N. Woertz is an ophthalmology resident physician at the University of Utah’s John A. Moran Eye Center. She provides comprehensive eye care under the supervision of faculty subspecialists and enjoys partnering with patients to explain findings, review imaging together, and choose practical treatment plans. Dr. Woertz completed an MD and PhD at the Medical College of Wisconsin, where her doctoral work explored vision science and neuro-ophthalmic disease. At Moran, she cares for a wide range of conditions—from common refractive concerns and dry eye to glaucoma and retinal disease—while gaining additional surgical and research experience. Patients can expect unhurried visits, clear next steps, and close follow-up with the Moran team. Dr. Woertz is committed to evidence-based medicine, patient education, and collaborative care that supports long-term vision and quality of life.

Jenna Jensen, MD, is an ophthalmology resident physician at the John A. Moran Eye Center, University of Utah Health. She earned both her medical degree and a bachelor’s degree in biomedical engineering from the University of Utah. As a Moran ARCS Scholar (2025–2026), Dr. Jensen’s early work has explored how genetics influences eye disease, including studies of X-linked retinitis pigmentosa. She has also contributed to community-focused projects on pediatric astigmatism in the Navajo Nation and collaborated on efforts to improve stroke recognition technology. In addition, she has co-authored work centered on eye conditions affecting older women. Dr. Jensen cares for patients with a wide range of eye concerns under the supervision of faculty subspecialists. She strives to make visits comfortable, explain findings in plain language, and create practical care plans that fit each patient’s life. She is especially interested in inherited retinal disease, women’s eye health, and expanding access to high-quality ophthalmic care across Utah.

Dr. Nathan G. Lambert is a comprehensive ophthalmologist and cataract and refractive surgeon at Excel Eye Center. He provides full-spectrum medical and surgical care—from routine eye exams to advanced lens-based and laser procedures—and treats common conditions such as glaucoma, dry eye disease, macular degeneration, and diabetic eye disease. Dr. Lambert earned his medical degree at the University of Utah School of Medicine and completed ophthalmology residency at the Casey Eye Institute (Oregon Health & Science University). He holds a Bachelor of Science from Utah State University. Dr. Lambert offers cataract surgery with a range of vision-enhancing intraocular lenses and performs laser vision correction, including LASIK and PRK. He also manages eye trauma and infections and performs glaucoma procedures when indicated. Patients value his straightforward explanations and focus on tailoring treatment to lifestyle and visual goals.

Dr. Mark L. Hill is a board-certified ophthalmologist who provides comprehensive eye care for adults and families in Layton, Utah. He grew up in northern Utah and attended Weber State University before earning his medical degree from the University of Utah School of Medicine. In 2015, he completed surgical ophthalmology residency training at The Ohio State University in Columbus, Ohio, and then practiced in Northern Nevada, including the Reno, Carson City, and Lake Tahoe region. Dr. Hill’s clinical interests include cataract surgery, glaucoma care, anterior segment conditions, dry eye disease, and pterygium. He also offers LASIK and eyelid surgery and treats retinal conditions such as macular degeneration and diabetic eye disease. He and his wife enjoy spending time with their four children outdoors, and he speaks Spanish.

Dr. Ashlie A. Bernhisel is an ophthalmologist who diagnoses and treats a range of vision conditions and offers surgical care when needed. Her clinical work includes caring for patients with cataracts and corneal disorders, and helping people understand the best options to protect their eyesight and quality of life. Her areas of care include cataract, Fuchs dystrophy, pterygium, Sjogren’s syndrome–related eye issues, and conjunctival melanoma. She performs cataract surgery, corneal procedures, and refractive surgery, with a focus on matching treatment to each patient’s symptoms, exam findings, and long-term vision goals. Dr. Bernhisel completed ophthalmology residency training at the University of Utah Department of Ophthalmology (2018) and additional fellowship training in cornea and refractive surgery at the University of California San Diego (2019), as well as a global health fellowship at the University of Utah (2021). She also earned an MSc from the London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine (2020).

Dr. Nadim S. Azar is an ophthalmology resident at the John A. Moran Eye Center who provides comprehensive eye care with an emphasis on clear education and practical prevention. In clinic he evaluates red eye, vision changes, and urgent symptoms, and helps patients manage chronic conditions like dry eye, glaucoma risk, diabetic retinopathy, and macular degeneration. He values partnering with primary-care teams to control systemic risk factors and protect long-term vision. Dr. Azar completed his medical degree at the American University of Beirut, where he also earned a bachelor’s degree in biology, and is training in ophthalmology at the University of Utah. He has been recognized as an ARCS Scholar for academic promise and contributes to resident education through case discussions and teaching materials. He welcomes adults seeking thorough evaluation, second opinions, or ongoing management of common eye diseases.

Dr. Joshua J. Hansen is a comprehensive ophthalmologist who provides advanced medical and surgical eye care for patients of all ages. He specializes in cataract surgery and offers modern intraocular lens options to optimize clarity, contrast, and independence from glasses. He also manages glaucoma, diabetic eye disease, macular degeneration, and ocular injuries, taking time to explain findings and involve patients in every decision. A summa cum laude graduate of Brigham Young University, Dr. Hansen earned his MD at the University of Miami, where he trained alongside leaders at Bascom Palmer Eye Institute and was elected to Alpha Omega Alpha. He completed his ophthalmology residency at the Emory Eye Institute in Atlanta, receiving additional training in advanced cataract techniques. Outside of clinic, he enjoys family time, the outdoors, and serving on medical mission trips. Patients describe his care as precise, kind, and easy to understand.

Dr. David Griffin is a comprehensive ophthalmologist at Utah Eye Centers who enjoys caring for the full spectrum of ophthalmic disease. He has a particular interest in cataract and refractive surgery and offers the latest advances in surgical eye care, including laser-assisted cataract surgery and advanced technology lens implants to address astigmatism and presbyopia. He also performs LASIK, PRK, ICL, refractive lens exchange, and minimally invasive glaucoma surgery, tailoring each procedure to the patient’s visual goals and lifestyle. An Idaho native, Dr. Griffin graduated magna cum laude from Brigham Young University and earned his Doctor of Medicine degree from the University of Central Florida, where he was elected to the Alpha Omega Alpha and Gold Humanism Honor Societies. He completed his ophthalmology residency at the Dean McGee Eye Institute in Oklahoma City and has published and presented research at major ophthalmic meetings. Dr. Griffin is a member of the American Academy of Ophthalmology, the American Society of Cataract and Refractive Surgery, the Refractive Surgery Alliance Society, and the American Medical Association, and he is committed to providing thoughtful, individualized care to every patient.

Dr. Brian Bird is a comprehensive ophthalmologist and cataract/refractive surgeon dedicated to clear communication and excellent surgical outcomes. Born and raised in the Salt Lake Valley, he graduated magna cum laude in Biology from Utah Valley University and contributed to next-generation sequencing research at ARUP Laboratories, earning a National MSACL Young Investigator grant. He completed medical school at the University of Nevada, Reno, where he also served on the board of a student-run clinic for underserved patients. Dr. Bird trained in ophthalmology at Eastern Virginia Medical School, serving as chief resident. He offers advanced cataract surgery with a range of lens options as well as modern refractive procedures, including LASIK, PRK, and implantable collamer lenses. He also performs minimally invasive glaucoma surgery and laser treatments for glaucoma. Patients appreciate his collaborative, step-by-step approach to decision-making and his commitment to tailoring care to each person’s vision needs.

Dr. Michael R. Christensen is a board-certified ophthalmologist at Utah Valley Eye Center with a focus on vision-correcting procedures and cataract surgery. He joined the practice in 2023 after completing ophthalmology residency training at Wake Forest Baptist Medical Center, where he gained broad surgical experience across cataract, medical retina, and glaucoma care. He earned his medical degree from Virginia Commonwealth University and his undergraduate degree from Brigham Young University. Dr. Christensen offers personalized surgical plans using advanced lens technologies, including Light Adjustable Lens, multifocal and extended depth-of-focus implants, and toric lenses for astigmatism. He also provides laser vision correction, including custom LASIK and PRK, as well as refractive lens exchange. Known for a calm, clear approach to education, he helps patients understand their choices so they can reach crisp, comfortable vision that fits their goals and lifestyle.

Katherine S. Hu, MD, is a cornea and refractive surgery specialist at the John A. Moran Eye Center. She helps patients see more clearly with a full range of vision-correction options—including LASIK, PRK, ICL, and refractive lens exchange—as well as advanced cataract surgery. Dr. Hu also treats corneal disease with cross-linking, cornea transplants, and pterygium removal. Patients appreciate her friendly, straightforward style and the time she takes to explain each step of care. Dr. Hu earned her medical degree from Saint Louis University School of Medicine, then completed ophthalmology residency and a cornea and refractive surgery fellowship at the Moran Eye Center. She serves patients at Moran’s University, Midvalley, and Redwood clinics and supports the community through outreach efforts. Dr. Hu is also a team physician for the NHL Utah Hockey Club. Whether you are considering laser vision correction or need specialized corneal care, she will tailor a plan to your goals with a focus on safety, comfort, and durable results.

Dr. Ashley A. Polski is a glaucoma fellow at the John A. Moran Eye Center at University of Utah Health, where she specializes in caring for adults with all forms of glaucoma. She provides comprehensive evaluations and evidence-based medical, laser, and surgical care as part of the Moran faculty team. Patients consistently praise her for her knowledgeable and friendly yet professional demeanor, thorough explanations, and compassionate approach to guiding them through long-term treatment decisions. Dr. Polski earned her medical degree from the Keck School of Medicine of USC and completed her undergraduate studies at Andrews University. Her advanced subspecialty training at the Moran Eye Center focuses on the full spectrum of glaucoma management and procedures. She is dedicated to partnering closely with each patient, aligning care with individual needs and lifestyle, and ensuring seamless follow-up by coordinating with referring eye doctors. Patient feedback highlights her excellent listening skills, unhurried approach, and genuine care for patient health.

Dr. Christopher Ricks is an ophthalmologist from Excel Eye Center who provides comprehensive eye care services. He completed his undergraduate degree in business management at Brigham Young University before attending medical school at the University of Texas in Houston. His ophthalmology training was completed at the John A. Moran Eye Clinic at the University of Utah. Dr. Ricks specializes in diabetic eye treatment, routine vision screenings, contacts and glasses management, and surgical treatments for conditions like glaucoma, cataracts, and LASIK eye surgery. He is passionate about serving patients with limited access to healthcare and has volunteered in Ghana, Tonga, India, the Navajo Nation, and local free clinics for refugees and the homeless. An active member of the Utah Ophthalmology Society, Utah Medical Association, and American Academy of Ophthalmology, Dr. Ricks has advocated for patient care improvements in Washington, D.C. Fluent in Tongan, he enjoys outdoor activities such as triathlons, skiing, and tennis, and is dedicated to providing compassionate care to his patients.

Jason Smart, MD, is a board-certified comprehensive ophthalmologist who enjoys helping patients in Cache Valley protect and improve their vision at Cache Valley Eye Associates in Logan. He provides clear, down-to-earth explanations and partners with each person to choose treatments that match their goals—whether that means staying on top of routine eye health or planning a comfortable, safe surgery. Dr. Smart performs modern cataract surgery and offers specialty lens implants to reduce dependence on glasses after surgery. He also treats glaucoma with minimally invasive glaucoma surgery (MIGS) and performs select eyelid procedures. Dr. Smart earned his medical degree from Texas A&M School of Medicine and completed an ophthalmology residency at the Dean McGee Eye Institute in Oklahoma City, where he trained in the full spectrum of medical and surgical eye care. He is a member of the American Academy of Ophthalmology and the American Board of Ophthalmology. Patients appreciate his calm bedside manner, thorough exams, and practical guidance for long-term eye health.

Dr. David Wilde is a board-certified ophthalmologist and eye surgeon at Olympus Eye Associates in Murray, Utah, providing care for patients with a broad range of medical and surgical eye conditions. Raised in Thousand Oaks, California, he studied neuroscience at Brigham Young University, graduating cum laude. He completed medical school at UT Health San Antonio, followed by an internal medicine internship at Trinity Hospital and an ophthalmology residency at UT Health San Antonio before moving to Utah to join Olympus Eye Associates and be closer to family. Dr. Wilde is described as a caring, courteous physician who takes time to listen and answer questions in clear language. He enjoys working with patients who need routine eye care as well as those preparing for surgery. Fluent in Spanish, he is able to communicate directly with many of his patients and families. Whether he is evaluating vision changes or planning surgical treatment, his goal is to provide thoughtful, individualized care that helps people see clearly and maintain healthy eyes for the long term.

Dr. Landon Karren is a board-certified ophthalmologist with over a decade of experience providing comprehensive medical and surgical eye care. He is known for his calm and welcoming demeanor, which puts patients at ease, and his meticulous attention to detail ensures that each patient receives personalized treatment. Dr. Karren's expertise spans cataract surgery, medical retina conditions, and glaucoma management, and he is also skilled in advanced vision correction procedures such as LASIK, PRK, and refractive lens exchange. After graduating cum laude from Utah State University, Dr. Karren pursued his passion for eye care by conducting innovative research at OHSU Casey Eye Institute, where he published work on uveitis and autoimmune retinopathy. He then earned his medical degree with honors from Touro University Nevada and completed his ophthalmology residency at Ohio University-Grandview Medical Center, serving as chief resident. Dr. Karren is dedicated to giving back, having restored sight to blind patients on a medical mission to Belize. Outside the clinic, he volunteers as a high school mountain bike coach and enjoys outdoor activities with his family.