Careen Lowder, MD, PhD
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Cleveland Clinic Main Campus
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- 216.444.7152
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- 216.445.8475
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View All PlansAbout Careen Lowder, MD, PhD
Careen Y. Lowder, MD, PhD, was born in Hong Kong, SAR China, and raised in Brazil where she completed her secondary education. She obtained her BA, MD and PhD degrees at Case Western Reserve University in Cleveland, Ohio. She completed her internship and residency in ophthalmology at Cleveland Clinic. This was followed by fellowships in uveitis at F.I. Proctor Foundation and in ophthalmic pathology, both at the University of California San Francisco.
Dr. Lowder has been a full, professional Staff Physician at Cleveland Clinic since 1986. She is Past-President of the Cleveland Ophthalmological Society and was on its Education Committee from 1994 through 2004. Dr. Lowder has been Activity Director for Ophthalmology Grand Rounds since 1999 and a member of the Board of Directors of the Cleveland Clinic Alumni Association as Specialty Director for Ophthalmology from 2002-2010. She was elected President of the Panamerican Society in Ocular Inflammatory Diseases in 1999.
Dr. Lowder has been leader of the World Class Service Team at Cleveland Clinic Cole Eye Institute, and patient satisfaction has improved from 42% excellent to 84% during her tenure. Dr. Lowder is frequently invited to speak at national and international meetings and has more than 100 publications in the field of uveitis.
Education & Professional Highlights
Appointed
1986
Education & Fellowships
Fellowship - University of California San Francisco Medical Center
Ext. Dis & Uveitis Fel
San Francisco,
CA USA
1983
Residency - Cleveland Clinic
Ophthalmology
Cleveland,
OH USA
1982
Internship - Cleveland Clinic
Internal Medicine
Cleveland,
OH USA
1979
Medical Education - Case Western Reserve University School of Medicine
Cleveland,
OH USA
1978
Medical Education - Case Western Reserve University School of Medicine
Microbiology
Cleveland,
OH USA
1975
Undergraduate - Case Western Reserve University School of Medicine
Biology
Cleveland,
OH USA
1970
Professional Highlights
- Member, Ophthalmic Knowledge Base Panel for Uveitis, American Academy of Ophthalmology
- Member, Basic Clinical Science Course, Committee on Intraocular Inflammation and Uveitis, American Academy of Ophthalmology
- Writer for Periodic Ophthalmic Review Test, American Board of Ophthalmology
- Associate Examiner, American Board of Ophthalmology
- President, Panamerican Society of Ocular Inflammatory Diseases
Certifications
- Ophthalmology
Specialty Interests
cataract and lens implant surgery, Ocular Inflammatory Diseases, Pathology, Uveitis
Awards & Honors
- Senior Achievement Award, American Academy of Ophthalmology, 2005
- Best Doctors in America, 2001-2008
Memberships
- American Academy of Ophthalmology
- Association for Research in Vision and Ophthalmology
- American Uveitis Society
- International Uveitis Study Group
- Panamerican Society of Ocular Inflammatory Diseases
Research & Publications
See publications for Careen Lowder, MD, PhD.
(Disclaimer: This search is powered by PubMed, a service of the U.S. National Library of Medicine. PubMed is a third-party website with no affiliation with Cleveland Clinic.)
Industry Relationships
Cleveland Clinic physicians and scientists may collaborate with the pharmaceutical or medical device industries to help develop medical breakthroughs or provide medical expertise or education. Cleveland Clinic strives to make scientific advances that will benefit patient care and support outside relationships that promise public benefit. In order for the discoveries of Cleveland Clinic physicians' and scientists' laboratories and investigations to benefit the public, these discoveries must be commercialized in partnership with industry. As experts in their fields, Cleveland Clinic physicians and scientists are often sought after by industry to consult, provide expertise and education.
To assure professional and commercial integrity in such matters, Cleveland Clinic maintains a program that reviews these collaborations and, when appropriate, puts measures in place to minimize bias that may result from ties to industry. Cleveland Clinic publicly discloses the names of companies when (i) its physicians/scientists receive $5,000 or more per year (or, in rare cases, equity or stock options) for speaking and consulting, (ii) its physicians/scientists serve as a fiduciary, (iii) its physicians/scientists receive or have the right to receive royalties or (iv) its physicians/ scientists hold any equity interest for the physician's/scientist's role as inventor, discoverer, developer, founder or consultant.* In publicly disclosing this information, Cleveland Clinic tries to provide information as accurately as possible about its physicians' and scientists' connections with industry.
As of 7/28/2023, Dr. Lowder has reported no financial relationship with industry that is applicable to this listing. In general, patients should feel free to contact their doctor about any of the relationships and how the relationships are overseen by Cleveland Clinic. To learn more about Cleveland Clinic's policies on collaborations with industry and innovation management, go to our Integrity in Innovation page.
Public Health Service-Reportable Financial Conflicts of Interest. Cleveland Clinic scientists and physicians engage in basic, translational and clinical research activities, working to solve health problems, enhance patient care and improve quality of life for patients. Interactions with industry are essential to bringing the researchers' discoveries to the public, but can present the potential for conflicts of interest related to their research activities. Click here to view a listing of instances where Cleveland Clinic has identified a Public Health Service (PHS)-Reportable Financial Conflict of Interest and has put measures in place to ensure that, to the extent possible, the design, conduct and reporting of the research is free from bias.
* Cleveland Clinic physicians and scientists subscribe to the guidance presented in the PhRMA Code on Interactions with Healthcare Professionals and the AdvaMed Code of Ethics on Interactions with Health Care Professionals. As such, gifts of substantial value are generally prohibited.
368 Patient Satisfaction Reviews
The Patient Satisfaction Rating is an average of all responses to the care provider related questions shown below from our nationally-recognized Press Ganey Patient Satisfaction Survey. Patients that are treated in outpatient or hospital environments may receive different surveys, and the volume of responses will vary by question.
Responses are measured on a scale of 1 to 5 with 5 being the best score.
The comments are submitted by patients and reflect their views and opinions. The comments are not endorsed by and do not necessarily reflect the views of Cleveland Clinic.
| Overall | Star Ratings | |
|---|---|---|
| Explains | 4.7 | |
| Courtesy, Respect & Concern | 4.8 | |
| Patient Rating of Doctor | 4.8 |
68 Patient Comments
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Reviewed on Nov 9, 2023
Dr Lowder is awesome
Reviewed on Nov 9, 2023
Dr Lowder is the best physician ever!
Reviewed on Nov 9, 2023
Dr Lowder is the best
Reviewed on Oct 26, 2023
Dr Lowder is the best!
Reviewed on Oct 12, 2023
Excellent care from Dr Lowder.
Reviewed on Oct 12, 2023
I had a slight disagreement with my provider regarding a medication that I wanted.However I do trust the provider and the professionalism that was displayed.
Reviewed on Oct 12, 2023
This appointment was a challenge for me because I disagreed with what the doctor recommended. However my doctor is an excellent doctor.,And very knowledgeable in her field .So I had a valuable experience from my visit.
Reviewed on Oct 5, 2023
Dr. Lowder was very thorough about all the questions I asked and was very patient.
Reviewed on Oct 5, 2023
Dr. Lowder is truly one of a kind. The very best!
Reviewed on Oct 4, 2023
Dr. Lowder has always been proactive in managing my retinitis.
Reviewed on Sep 25, 2023
Dr. Lowder is the absolute best physician I have ever seen. She made very aggressive treatment decisions that has given me back an amazing quality of life while battling neurosarcoidosis. I am so fortunate that she is a member of my healthcare team.
Reviewed on Sep 21, 2023
Doctor Lowder is always so pleasant and smooth it really gives me a since of comfort to see her.She has really help to keep me together.smooth operator
Reviewed on Sep 15, 2023
Dr Lowder takes my vision and medical needs serious. She knows the end result she desires to achieve whenever I have a flare up. I know that I am in the best of care with Dr. Lowder. She's the best and an excellent teacher.
Reviewed on Sep 11, 2023
Dr. Lowder's empathy is genuine. She has a unique ability to turn a routine checkup into a joyful experience.
Reviewed on Aug 25, 2023
Lowder is an excellent doctor.
Reviewed on Aug 24, 2023
I always feel informed & treated with respect during my visits with Dr.Lowder or her staff.
Reviewed on Aug 24, 2023
I already have made recommendations to others! I cannot imagine being anywhere else for my care. I have suffered 23 yrs with this condition and have been under the care of multiple other providers as comparison. There is No Comparison. All else is a downgrade!
Reviewed on Aug 7, 2023
It is a great pleasure being a patient of Dr. Lowder. Her concern shines through, even though I typically only spend a few minutes per year with her. She is one of the reasons I continue my care at the Cleveland Clinic rather than where I live in Pittsburgh.
Reviewed on Aug 4, 2023
Dr Lowder is professional and kind in her manner. I always recommend her to anyone looking for a doctor in her specialty
Reviewed on Jul 26, 2023
Always a pleasant experience by all providers involved
Reviewed on Jul 13, 2023
Always feel great after visit with Dr.Lowder!
Reviewed on Jul 13, 2023
Dr' Lowder is amazing. She restored my vision and has taken excellent care of me for years.
Reviewed on Jul 12, 2023
Dr. Linder is an excellent physician. She is caring, thorough and knowledgeable. A true asset to your staff.
Reviewed on Jun 23, 2023
Dr. Lowder is one of the very best doctors that I have ever seen. She is exceptionally thorough and takes the time to explain the diagnosis and treatment options. Over the years, she has referred me to other specialists when needed and followed up on my prognosis. I have greatly appreciated her care over the 25 years that I have been a patient.
Reviewed on Jun 22, 2023
Dr. Lowder and her team saved my eye sight. Exceptionally thorough in testing, diagnosis, and treatment. Responsive to all MyChart questions and concerns. I feel so lucky and blessed to have Cole Eye close to home. I know people with my condition fly in from all over the US for Cole Eye care. It's right in my backyard. I can't thank Dr Lowder and Cole Eye enough.
Reviewed on Jun 22, 2023
I'm a working mother of two and was so worried I would go blind. Dr Lowder and her associates saved my life. If not for them I wouldn't be able to work or be independent or take care of my kids. God bless you all.
Reviewed on Jun 16, 2023
Dr. Lowder is great for treatment. Very direct in terms of communication and I enjoy going to here.
Reviewed on Jun 7, 2023
Needed to get in on same day of another appt. Jennifer Dr Lowder's person is the one that made this happen for me.
Reviewed on Jun 7, 2023
Greatest respect for Dr Lowder!!
Reviewed on May 31, 2023
Staff is always friendly and doctors are great
Reviewed on May 25, 2023
Dr. Lowder is by far the most valuable asset to my sarcoidosis care. I owe my vision and my quality of life to her expertise.
Reviewed on May 17, 2023
Dr Lowder always takes time to discuss issues and invites questions I might have.
Reviewed on May 12, 2023
Dr lowder and staff are amazing!Highly recommended!
Reviewed on May 10, 2023
My Doctor is very kind, and really does love her job. She explained everything very throughly. And really is a great professional Doctor. I trust my eye care to her alot. And highly recommend her care to my freinds and family.
Reviewed on Apr 20, 2023
Dr Lowder is terrific. She's a fantastic doctor.
Reviewed on Apr 19, 2023
The fellow I saw was very good. He answered most of my questions and was very understanding. The only reason he did this was because I had a list of questions to ask. I've been seeing Dr. Lowder for over a year now and she's never explained anything to me about what's going on, possible treatments, possible side effects, etc. She only answers questions, and most of the time there are no actual answers she just kind of skirts around the question or treats big news like it's nothing. I've seen several doctors at the cole eye center and they all seem to be this way. I get to them what I'm going through is nothing but to me it's a lot. I'd just like to have a doctor who explains things and tries to ease my worries instead of dismissing me.
Reviewed on Apr 14, 2023
Absolutely amazing!! So thankful for Dr Lowder
Reviewed on Apr 14, 2023
We have been going to this eye clinic for over 20 years and dr. Lowry is wonderful. All of our family memebers have been to her for cataract surgery and all has alsways been great thank you...
Reviewed on Apr 13, 2023
Dr Lowder is the best I don't care so much about quick visit or personality I feel confident under her eye care
Reviewed on Apr 13, 2023
Dr Lowder is the very best the clinic has to offer
Reviewed on Apr 7, 2023
I've seen Dr. Lowder for fifteen years and she has always considered my concerns and explained my eye condition with great attention.
Reviewed on Apr 6, 2023
Dr. Lowder is the best kind, caring, thorough and super knowledgeable have been going to her for almost 30 years
Reviewed on Apr 6, 2023
Appt was scheduled in person after previous visit. When I do need to contact Dr Lowder's office her staff is always extremely helpful.
Reviewed on Apr 6, 2023
Dr Lowder is a wonderful doctor. I've been under her care for 22 years.
Reviewed on Apr 5, 2023
Jen is Dr Lowder's office has always been friendly, caring and courteous.
Reviewed on Apr 5, 2023
There should be EXCELLENT because that's what Dr. C Louder is. She is beyond excellent actually!
Reviewed on Apr 3, 2023
Very knowledgeable doctor
Reviewed on Mar 31, 2023
Dr. Lowder provides a superb level of care. Her knowledge is fantastic and she takes time to listen to my updates and questions.
Reviewed on Mar 23, 2023
Dr. Lowder is an exceptional professional.
Reviewed on Mar 23, 2023
Dr. Lowder and her staff are professional, courteous and knowledgeable.
Reviewed on Mar 22, 2023
Dr. Careen Lowder is a leader. She sets a good example to her staff. I have witnessed the respect from staff and doctors. As a patient, I can only hope her professionalism and expert knowledge is grasped by other doctors at the Cole Eye Institute. She listens to the patient and takes the time to discuss options for my care. I trust Dr. Lowder explicitly and her advice for I know my health is in good hands. She cares and it's shown throughout every visit I have had with this wonderful doctor.
Reviewed on Mar 22, 2023
I would fly for many years to CCF Cole Eye Institute from Arizona just to get the proper care from Dr. Careen Lowder, and moved to Ohio with her in mind for my ongoing care.
Reviewed on Mar 3, 2023
*Dr. Lowder is by far the best care giver I have ever had!
Reviewed on Feb 27, 2023
I was able to schedule an urgent visit for some acute eye symptoms. All the staff including Dr. Fell and Dr. Lowder were extremely professional, prompt, courteous and thorough. I received excellent care , as I have come to rely on from the Cole Eye Institute.
Reviewed on Feb 24, 2023
Best move I've made for my eyes. Love Dr. Lowder. She is very good at what she does and lucky to have her
Reviewed on Feb 20, 2023
Dr. Lowder is always kind and compassionate, not to mention she's brilliant.
Reviewed on Feb 15, 2023
My overall experience was very good just not with Dr louder she entered the room and did not even say hello
Reviewed on Feb 3, 2023
With exception of time this doc is amazing
Reviewed on Jan 27, 2023
Dr. Lowder has been the most considerate physician.
Reviewed on Jan 27, 2023
I have been seeing her for over 30 years she is excellent
Reviewed on Jan 20, 2023
Dr Lowder is amazing and I am extremely grateful to have her as my doctor.
Reviewed on Jan 13, 2023
Dr Lowder is just awesome!
Reviewed on Jan 12, 2023
No complaints with this wonderful Doctor.
Reviewed on Jan 12, 2023
Dr. Careen Lowder is someone whom I trust. She is highly intelligent and she cares about her patients. What I truly appreciate is her direct no nonsense approach. I know she will tell me in a professional manner pros and cons. She is truly above the grade of most physicians. I respect her above all.
Reviewed on Jan 4, 2023
Dr.,Careen Lowder is an excellent provider!! She has helped improve my eye problem so much! I was concerned that I would lose my vision period! I was referred to her and I am so grateful that I'm under her care!
Reviewed on Dec 21, 2022
Dr Lowder is an excellent doctor. She is caring and very informative.
Reviewed on Dec 19, 2022
Caring doctor
Reviewed on Dec 12, 2022
I will never return to see Dr. Lowder or any other physician at the Cole Eye Institute, and I will be sure to discourage others from seeking care here. This was without a doubt the worst experience I've ever had in my 8 years of eye treatment.