
Matthew M. Cole, M.D., is passionate about his career as a Retina Specialist. And he is excited about the emerging technologies in the treatment of diseases of the retina. He admits it was the rapidly developing advancements in the field that drew him to a career in Ophthalmology.
Dr. Cole joins the practice of Drs. Campbell, Cunningham, Taylor & Haun as Retina Specialist after finishing his residency at the University of Kentucky Medical Center and completing a year-long Retina Fellowship at UK.
“The subspecialty of retina is particularly exciting to me,” says Dr. Cole. “You’re always working on the edge of technology and it’s great to know that there are even more innovative treatments coming in the future.”
“The fear of losing eyesight for many is a day-to-day burden,” he adds. “As a Retina Specialist, I enjoy being able to help calm the fears of my patients which is certainly appealing. Helping their quality of life is what drives me to do my very best every time I visit with a patient.”
Dr. Cole grew up as the son of a Pulmonologist who was very popular with his patients. The younger Dr. Cole hoped to make a similar connection with his own patients. This, he recognized early on, is crucial to the quality of care he can provide and, potentially, the outcomes achieved.
“My philosophy is to treat patients as I would someone in my own family,” he says. “Most importantly, I constantly strive to better listen to what my patients have to say and help create a healthy dialogue. I truly believe that this helps patients become more comfortable with the decisions they make moving forward in their treatment.”
A native of Johnson City, Tennessee, Dr. Cole received his Bachelor’s degree from the University of the South. He received his M.D. from East Tennessee State University. He then completed his Internship, Residency and Medical Retina Fellowship at the University of Kentucky in Lexington.
While working and studying in Lexington, Dr. Cole met his wife, Christa. She also works in the field of eye care as a Doctor of Optometry. They were married in 2011. As an East Tennessee native, Cole developed a love for the mountains and enjoys hiking, fishing and camping during his free time.
Dr. Cole sees patients at our offices in Knoxville, Farragut, Maryville and Sevierville. To schedule an appointment, call (865) 584-0905.
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