From the clinic to the operating room, to clinical research, Dr. Christopher Spearman’s journey in ophthalmology reflects both dedication and passion for helping others see the world more clearly.
Dr. Spearman completed his ophthalmology residency training at the University of Wisconsin School of Medicine and Public Health in 2019.
“I chose the University of Wisconsin because the faculty were all incredibly friendly and kind, and they cared that residents received quality training that prepared them for a successful career,” Dr. Spearman explained. “I knew that upon graduating from residency I would be well-prepared to enter directly into practice or be a competitive applicant for fellowship programs.”
After residency, Dr. Spearman joined Scott & Christie Eyecare Associates in Cranberry Township, PA, where he now serves as managing partner. He is also the medical director of The Surgery Center at Cranberry and remains deeply engaged in advancing ophthalmology through clinical research—acting as principal investigator in 22 trials and sub-investigator in 68.
Reflecting on his training, Dr. Spearman credits the Department of Ophthalmology and Visual Sciences for preparing him to thrive. One standout memory was performing eight cataract surgeries back-to-back in a single morning as a resident. “That experience cemented my confidence in entering practice right after residency,” he said.
Beyond the clinic, his time in Madison was filled with fond memories: afternoons at the Memorial Union Terrace, cheering at Camp Randall, hiking Devil’s Lake, and enjoying the Great Taste of the Midwest. He also recalls a transformative rotation in India at Dr. Schroff’s Charity Eye Hospital, where he collaborated with global partners and shared surgical techniques.
For Dr. Spearman, helping others is more than a profession—it’s a calling. Whether restoring a patient’s vision, mentoring a technician, or collaborating with colleagues, he finds purpose in advancing the field and improving lives.
Dr. Spearman offers straightforward guidance to those entering the field:
- Say yes. “Make time for industry representatives, introduce yourself to other providers, and network as much as possible. Opportunities grow from these connections.”
- Find alignment. “Choose a practice where leadership’s values and goals match yours—whether in patient care, technology, or growth strategy. Your success depends on the support around you.”
- Keep learning. “I challenge myself to master one or two new surgical techniques each year. But above all, remember the Golden Rule: treat others the way you would want to be treated.”
