At The Ledge, we love bringing people together to learn, grow, and connect. Our recent Biscuits ‘n’ Tips event welcomed Dr. Rachel Hart, a local optometrist serving West Tennessee areas such as Medina, Milan, and Jackson. She shared eye-opening insights on vision health, technology in optometry, and stories from her journey.
Meet Dr. Hart: A West Tennessee Native with a Vision for Quality Care
Dr. Rachel Hart grew up in Milan, Tennessee, and has stayed close to her Tennessee roots. After graduating from the University of Tennessee in Knoxville, she earned her doctorate in Memphis and spent several years practicing in Nashville, where she saw up to 40 patients a day. That fast-paced environment helped shape her skills, but she longed for a deeper connection with her patients. So she returned home and opened Hart Eyes in Medina, where she now sees about 20 patients a day, giving her more time to focus on personalized care. She runs the practice alongside her sister, keeping it family-centered and community-focused.
Hart Eyes: Serving Medina, Milan, Jackson, and Beyond
Located in Medina, Hart Eyes is equipped with cutting-edge tools like the Optomap, a high-resolution camera that tracks changes in the eye over time. Dr. Hart treats conditions like glaucoma and cataracts, and offers annual eye exams, glasses, and contact lens care.
Why Annual Eye Exams Matter
Dr. Hart shared a powerful story about a patient who lost most of his vision due to untreated glaucoma. Regular exams could have caught the issue decades earlier. She emphasized that even people without glasses should get yearly checkups.
Everyday Tips for Eye Health
- Eat dark leafy greens and acai berries for antioxidants
- Omega-3s from fish and nuts help with dry eyes
- Avoid sleeping in contact lenses to reduce risk of corneal ulcers
- Be cautious with steroid nasal sprays, which can raise eye pressure
Did you know?
- Humans blink around 15,000 times a day!
Technology and Treatment Limits in Tennessee
Dr. Hart can perform several laser procedures like YAG and LPI. However, SLT (Selective Laser Trabeculoplasty) is not yet permitted in Tennessee. A bill may change that next year.
Legal Status of SLT in Tennessee
- As of now, SLT is not permitted for optometrists in Tennessee.
- A scope expansion bill is expected in 2026 that may allow optometrists to perform SLT.
- This is part of a broader national movement to expand optometric privileges due to increasing demand for eye care and a shortage of ophthalmologists.
She also highlighted Nuance Audio glasses, which combine vision correction with hearing support, ideal for patients with dual needs.
Contact Info:
📞 731-462-8040
📧 [email protected]
🌐 http://www.harteyes.com
✔ Accepts various insurances, including VA patients
Join Us at The Ledge
Events like Biscuits ‘n’ Tips are part of our mission to bring education and enrichment to our community. Whether you’re from Jackson, Medina, Milan, or nearby towns like Humboldt or Lexington, you’re always welcome here.
Want to suggest a speaker or topic? Reach out. This is your community hall, and your ideas shape what happens next.