Clinical Focus & Patient Care
Joseph W. Schmitz, MD is a board-certified ophthalmologist by the American Board of Ophthalmology providing cataract and refractive lens surgery, glaucoma care and surgery, and complex anterior segment care at SharpeVision MODERN LASIK & LENS in Bellevue and Renton, Washington.
His approach to cataract and lens consultations begins with understanding how a patient uses their eyes every day—from night driving and computer work to reading and outdoor activities—paired with a comprehensive examination of the cornea, lens, retina, and optic nerve.
Education, Fellowship & Academic Leadership
Board Certification: Certified by the American Board of Ophthalmology.
Glaucoma Fellowship (2012–2013): Completed subspecialty fellowship training in glaucoma at UCLA’s Jules Stein Eye Institute.
Ophthalmology Residency: Completed residency training in ophthalmology at Naval Medical Center San Diego.
Medical Degree: Earned his Doctor of Medicine (MD) from the Uniformed Services University of the Health Sciences, where he graduated valedictorian and was elected to the Alpha Omega Alpha (AOA) Honor Medical Society.
Academic & Military Service: Served 24 years in the U.S. Navy as an ophthalmic surgeon, residency educator, and Department Chairman of Ophthalmology at Naval Medical Center San Diego. Selected as Senior Naval Ophthalmologist of the Year by the Society of Military Ophthalmologists and recipient of the Meyer Wiener Resident Teacher of the Year award.
Humanitarian Leadership: Serves on the board of Benevolent Missions International (BMI) and directs humanitarian ophthalmic surgical missions in Corozal, Belize, and Sigatoka, Fiji.
Personal Life: Outside of clinical practice, Dr. Schmitz enjoys spending time with his wife, Kati, and supporting their five children in their athletic pursuits.
Verified Profile & Research Links
- • Practice Biography: Dr. Joseph Schmitz at SharpeVision MODERN LASIK & LENS
- • Peer-Reviewed Bibliography: View Selected Ophthalmic Publications (PubMed & DOI)
- • Humanitarian Missions: Benevolent Missions International in Belize & Fiji
- • Expert Consulting: Ophthalmology Medical-Legal Consulting
ABO
Board Certified by the American Board of Ophthalmology
UCLA
Glaucoma Fellowship, Jules Stein Eye Institute (2012–2013)
USUHS
Valedictorian & Alpha Omega Alpha Honor Medical Society