Meet Our Ophthalmologists & Optometrist
Our ophthalmologists, Dr. Stephen Wiles, F.A.C.S., and Dr. Erin Gilliland, and our optometrist, Dr. Rachel Tischinski, have extensive education and training.
After graduating from college, Dr. Rachel earned a four-year degree in optometry at Indiana University School of Optometry in Bloomington.
After completing college, Dr. Wiles attended University of Missouri – Kansas City School of Medicine, and Dr. Gilliland attended University of Kansas School of Medicine. After graduation, their training continued for three more years as residents specializing in diagnosing and treating eye diseases.
All of our doctors can provide basic eye care. However, since our ophthalmologists’ training is focused on eye diseases and surgery, that is generally their concentration.
Dr. Wiles, Dr. Rachel and Dr. Gilliland are licensed to practice in the state of Missouri and participate in continuing education.
Dr. Stephen Wiles
Dr. Stephen Wiles, M.D., F.A.C.S. is the founder and president of Wiles Eye Center. Dr. Wiles is one of the nation’s leading cataract surgeons and has lectured nationally on minimally invasive cataract surgery. Learn More
Dr. Rachel Tischinski
Dr. Rachel Tischinski, O.D. is dedicated to helping each of her patients achieve the best vision possible. Learn More
Dr. Erin Gilliland
Dr. Erin Gilliland, M.D. is a well-recognized ophthalmologist at Wiles Eye Center. Learn More
Our class-leading optometrists and ophthalmologists are dedicated to the highest patient care and can help you with any of your eye care needs.
Why Do Patients in Kansas City Choose Us?
The answer lies in our unparalleled commitment to patient care and excellence in ophthalmology. Our team of doctors combines years of experience with a passion for delivering comprehensive eye care. We employ the latest technologies and techniques to ensure that you receive the most accurate diagnoses and effective treatments available. Moreover, our personalized approach means that we see our patients as individuals with unique needs and preferences. We take the time to listen to your concerns, answer your questions, and tailor our care to suit your specific requirements.
What Is the Difference Between an Ophthalmologist and an Optometrist?
Both types of doctors play integral roles in ensuring your eyes are well-cared for, but they offer different services based on their training and expertise.
Ophthalmologists are medical doctors (MDs) or doctors of osteopathy (DOs) who focus on vision and eye care. They are trained to perform eye surgery, identify and treat eye disease, conduct eye exams, and prescribe medications. Their extensive medical training — typically at least eight years beyond a bachelor’s degree — allows them to handle more complex medical and surgical cases.
Optometrists, on the other hand, are healthcare professionals but not medical doctors. They earn a Doctor of Optometry (OD) degree following at least three years of undergraduate college and four years of optometry school. Optometrists are trained to perform eye exams, diagnose and treat vision conditions and eye diseases, and prescribe eyeglasses and contact lenses. They do not perform eye surgery, though they can refer patients to and work alongside ophthalmologists for patients requiring surgical treatment.
At Wiles Eye Center, our team includes both ophthalmologists and an optometrist, ensuring that all aspects of your eye care are covered. Whether you need a routine eye exam, management of a chronic eye condition, or surgical intervention, our experts are here to provide the highest level of care.
The Importance of Eye Care
At Wiles Eye Center, we understand that your vision is vital to every aspect of your life. This is why regular eye care is not just important; it’s essential. Regular eye examinations are the cornerstone of preventing eye diseases and ensuring that you maintain optimal vision throughout your life. They allow for early detection of conditions like glaucoma, macular degeneration, and cataracts, often before you’ve noticed any symptoms. Early detection means early treatment, which can significantly improve your outcomes and help preserve your vision.
We are proud to be the choice of so many in Kansas City for their eye care needs. Our commitment to excellence, combined with our state-of-the-art facilities and personalized approach to care sets us apart. Whether you are seeing us for the first time or are a returning patient, we are here to ensure your vision is at its best. After all, your eyes are your windows to the world, and at Wiles Eye Center, we’re dedicated to keeping that view clear and bright.
To schedule an appointment with one of our talented doctors, please call 816-455-2020 (Kansas City) or 816-279-7015 (St. Joseph) today.