For more than three decades, Dr. Richard Shuldiner has helped redefine what's possible for people living with vision loss—and has trained optometrists to do the same.
The Shuldiner Low Vision Training Institute prepares private practice optometrists to confidently evaluate, prescribe for, and care for patients with low vision while building a rewarding specialty within their practices.
The Shuldiner Low Vision Training Institute was created to bridge that gap.
We believe every person living with vision loss deserves access to a doctor who has the knowledge, confidence, and tools to help them continue living independently. That's why we train optometrists not only in the clinical science of low vision rehabilitation, but also in the practical application, mentorship, and philosophy that make exceptional patient care possible.
Every doctor we train has the opportunity to restore independence, confidence, and hope to thousands of patients throughout their career.
The philosophy and methodologies taught at SLVTI are rooted in the pioneering work of Dr. William Feinbloom, whose vision helped establish the foundation of modern low vision rehabilitation.
Building upon that legacy, Dr. Richard Shuldiner spent decades refining a practical, patient-centered approach that combines clinical excellence with real-world implementation in private practice.
Today, every doctor trained through SLVTI learns a proven philosophy that emphasizes thoughtful problem solving, individualized patient care, and practical solutions that help patients return to the activities that matter most.
Our philosophy isn't simply a collection of techniques. It's a way of thinking—one that teaches doctors how to solve functional problems, restore independence, and help patients return to the activities that matter most.
Real patients, evaluated under the guidance of experienced low vision specialists.
A proven framework for integrating low vision as a sustainable specialty.
Clinical and business support that continues long after the four days end.
A network of doctors solving difficult cases together through the IALVS.
SLVTI also provides practical guidance in practice development, business strategy, marketing, referral relationships, and implementation so doctors return home prepared not only to care for patients—but to build a sustainable specialty within their practices.
Working alongside Dr. Richard Shuldiner and the training team, Susan Ackerson mentors doctors through the business and practice development aspects of establishing and growing low vision services, helping them translate their training into long-term success.
It's found in the practices of the doctors we train and the patients whose lives they continue to change—helping patients read again, remain independent, continue working, drive when appropriate, enjoy hobbies, recognize loved ones, and reclaim activities they feared were lost forever.
Every graduate represents a commitment to clinical excellence, ethical patient care, lifelong learning, and the continued advancement of low vision rehabilitation.
That commitment guides every training session, every mentoring conversation, and every relationship we build with the doctors who choose to train through SLVTI.
Whether you're looking to make a greater impact on your patients, differentiate your practice, or build a rewarding new specialty, we'd welcome the opportunity to learn more about your goals.
Let's have a conversation about whether SLVTI is the right fit for you.
Susan Ackerson reads and answers every one of these herself.
