Dr. John Bissell is a low vision specialist with experience helping patients adapt to permanent vision loss. A native of Natrona Heights, he earned his undergraduate degree from the University of Pittsburgh at Johnstown and completed his Doctor of Optometry at the Pennsylvania College of Optometry in 2004.
He completed residency training in primary care and ocular disease, where he worked alongside ophthalmologists in specialties including glaucoma, retina-vitreous, neuro-ophthalmology, and low vision. This collaborative training deepened his expertise in diagnosing and managing complex visual conditions.
Dr. Bissell is one of a select group of optometrists in the United States to receive advanced clinical training from the International Academy of Low Vision Specialists (IALVS). He specializes in evaluating functional vision loss and fitting custom telescopic and magnifying systems for patients with conditions such as macular degeneration, diabetic retinopathy, Stargardt disease, and retinitis pigmentosa.
His approach is grounded in helping patients maintain independence, comfort, and quality of life, even when standard glasses or surgery are no longer effective. Every evaluation is tailored to the individual, with a focus on real-world goals and practical outcomes.
Outside of his clinical work, Dr. Bissell enjoys scuba diving and traveling with his wife, Brooke, and their two daughters, Amelia and Victoria. He is also a certified national-level swimming official.
