Find a Top Ophthalmologist Near Me in Lakeland, FL – Book an Appointment Instantly

Margaret K. Poulos, MD, is a board-certified ophthalmologist at Ramirez & Poulos MD, PA, in Orlando and Kissimmee, Florida. With over 30 years of experience as an ophthalmologist and cataract surgeon, Dr. Poulos is trained in the latest techniques of the industry, enabling her to provide patients with the best service possible.

Dr. Poulos attended DePauw University in Greencastle, Indiana, where she studied biology. She went on to complete her medical degree at Washington University School of Medicine in St. Louis. She did her internship at the Barnes-Jewish Hospital in St. Louis, and her residency training in ophthalmology at Washington University’s visual sciences department.

After completing her medical training, Dr. Poulos worked in private practice at Eye Care Associates in Clayton, Missouri. During this time, she also served as an assistant clinical professor at Washington University’s visual sciences department.

In 1996, Dr. Poulos moved to Florida and became a named partner at Ramirez & Poulos, MD, where she continues to work to this day. She is affiliated with the Orlando Regional Medical Center in Orlando, Florida, and is a fellow at the American Academy of Ophthalmology.

Dr. Poulos is passionate about providing ophthalmological care to everyone regardless of their financial status. Along with her private practice, she volunteers to run monthly ophthalmology clinics at Grace Medical Home a nonprofit organization for the underserved residents of the community.

In her personal time, Dr. Poulos enjoys gardening to relax and cycling and lifting weights to keep fit.

Dr. Manuela Gutierrez Velez, originally from Medellin, Colombia, and raised in Central Florida, is a dedicated, board-certified ophthalmologist committed to delivering compassionate care and community service. She completed her Ophthalmology residency at Wake Forest School of Medicine in Winston-Salem, NC, following her Doctor of Medicine degree from the same institution. Prior to that, she earned a Bachelor of Science in Biochemistry from the University of Florida.

Active in professional societies like the American Academy of Ophthalmology and Women in Ophthalmology, Dr. Gutierrez Velez has been recognized for her academic achievements, receiving awards such as the Brian Sloan Medical Student Award and Lettie Pate Whitehead Scholar.

Her research contributions include presentations and peer-reviewed publications on topics like cataract outreach and endophthalmitis. Dr. Gutierrez Velez is passionate about teaching and mentoring, participating in programs like the American Academy of Ophthalmology Minority Ophthalmology Mentoring Program.

Dr. Gutierrez Velez will be joining Ramirez & Poulos MD, PA, in August 2024, where she will continue to provide exceptional eye care.