Investing in a Shared Vision

The Pediatric Ophthalmology Department at GBMC combines clinical excellence, strong mentorship, and a deeply collaborative culture. 

Mary Louise Z Collins, MD 

Dr. Mary Lou Collins, the Wilkinson-Welch-Hoover Endowed Chair in Ophthalmology, reflects the field’s evolution. Influenced by her father, Dr. Lorenz Zimmerman, regarded as the grandfather of ophthalmic pathology, she understands the profound impact of eye care. His landmark work on retinoblastoma helped shape the field. This legacy became personal when Dr. Collins’ brother and niece were successfully treated for retinoblastoma. 

At GBMC, Dr. Collins found an ideal place to build her career. Since 1993, she has developed a program distinguished by high-quality clinical care, surgical expertise, teaching, and research. Her leadership as residency program director and now as Chair has expanded graduate medical education, creating a structured and supportive learning environment. Equally important, she has cultivated a culture where physicians can thrive professionally while also maintaining fulfilling personal lives. 

Dr. Collins’ passion for pediatric ophthalmology is evident. As she explains, “Treating children requires not only technical skill but also creativity, patience, and a commitment to building trust.” GBMC physicians use specialized techniques to assess vision in the youngest patients. This coordinated, thoughtful approach to care is a hallmark of the program. 

Allison Jensen, MD 

Dr. Allison Jensen envisioned practicing at GBMC but first broadened her experience by completing a residency at Northwestern University, a fellowship at the University of Minnesota, and work in private practice. In 2008, she joined GBMC at the invitation of Dr. Collins. 

Ophthalmology is also part of her family’s legacy. Her grandfather was an ophthalmologist whose expertise proved invaluable when Dr. Jensen’s mother was diagnosed with amblyopia, a condition that impaired her vision in one eye. With careful monitoring and intervention, her mother managed the condition successfully. 

Dr. Jensen serves as Director of Pediatric Ophthalmology and Strabismus. Her clinical work is complemented by her role as principal investigator with the Pediatric Eye Disease Investigator Group. 

Dr. Jensen’s approach centers on a strong emphasis on early diagnosis and intervention. “There is no such thing as ‘too young’ for children to be seen by a pediatric ophthalmologist,” she explains. “We care for infants in the preterm NICU and can accurately assess eye conditions even in the youngest patients.” Prompt care can significantly affect both treatment effectiveness and long-term vision outcomes. Through her leadership and dedication to patient-centered care, Dr. Jensen plays a vital role in GBMC’s pediatric ophthalmology program. 

Jana Friedman, MD 

Dr. Jana Friedman represents the next generation of leadership. Inspired by her father, a GBMC ophthalmologist, and mentored by Drs. Collins and Jensen, she discovered her passion for caring for children. After completing her medical degree at Vanderbilt University, residency at the University of Maryland, where she served as Chief Resident, and fellowship in Pediatric Ophthalmology and Adult Strabismus at Children’s National Hospital, she joined the GBMC team. 

Despite high patient volumes, physicians work closely together, consulting on cases, assisting in surgery, and supporting one another in urgent situations. This team-based approach ensures consistent, comprehensive care and allows providers to spend meaningful time with patients. Skilled orthoptists and specialized clinics for conditions such as strabismus further enhance the department’s ability to deliver targeted, high-quality treatment. 

Dr. Friedman’s work highlights the impact of pediatric ophthalmology. She shares, “From prescribing glasses to performing complex surgeries for strabismus or cataracts, the outcomes for children can be immediate and truly life-changing. It is extremely rewarding.” Early intervention can significantly influence a child’s development and quality of life. She credits the department’s culture as key to maintaining the highest standards of care. 

Looking ahead, the planned expansion of ophthalmology facilities in the Founder’s Building will meet the growing demand for pediatric specialists. The personal commitment of Drs. Collins, Jensen, and Friedman underscores their commitment to exceptional care and access for the community, especially its youngest members.