Dr. Ruth Tessema

Dr. Ruth Kebede Tessema is a comprehensive ophthalmologist with the Wilmer Eye Institute who provides patient-centered care at Johns Hopkins Medicine locations in Howard County and Frederick. She believes that clear vision is essential to independence and well-being, and partners with patients to remove barriers to quality eye care. Dr. Tessema evaluates a full spectrum of medical and surgical eye conditions and tailors treatment plans to each person’s goals and daily needs. Her approach emphasizes education, shared decision-making, and respect for every patient’s health journey. She earned her medical degree from Howard University College of Medicine and completed her ophthalmology residency at the UC Davis Eye Center. Prior to joining Wilmer, she served patients as an ophthalmologist with Kaiser Permanente in California. Whether managing chronic disease or planning cataract surgery, Dr. Tessema strives to deliver attentive, timely care that protects sight and supports long-term ocular health.