Retinal Specialist
University of Illinois Eye and Ear Infirmary
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Biography
Dr. Flood's career choice came literally by accident. As a 20-year-old college sophomore at the University of California (Berkeley), he was in an accident that left him unconscious with a serious concussion.
"Suddenly I was immersed in a hospital environment. After I recovered, it occurred to me that, had I hit my head a little harder, I might not have survived. I was enlightened by my hospital experience and inspired by the dedicated people who helped me. It was at that time that I decided to go into medicine."
At UCLA Medical School, Dr. Flood met a very dynamic retinal specialist whose insight led him to realize that "ophthalmology is a microcosm of medicine, requiring both medical acumen and surgical skills." He also discovered that "the treatment an eye surgeon provides has an immediate impact on patients' lives."
After graduating from the University of California Irvine Residency Program, Dr. Flood completed his fellowship at the University of Illinois Eye and Ear Infirmary. He is an assistant clinical professor of ophthalmology there - as well as assistant professor of ophthalmology at Rush Medical College.
"I enjoy my work and the people I work with. Taking care of patients who have retinal problems and helping them to relieve their anxiety over the health of their eyes is very rewarding. Also, the opportunity to create new knowledge through research adds intellectual stimulation. We're helping people, having fun doing it and creating new knowledge. For me, it's a very fulfilling experience."
Dr. Flood likes to take the human approach, "to look at the whole person beyond the retina. The goal is to get patients to maximize their life style by looking at how they can deal with the severe retinal problems that are affecting their vision."
When I'm not being a doctor...
With two athletic and musically talented children, Dr. Flood spends a lot of time watching their games and concerts. "Also, my Wife and I are interested in all the city has to offer - theater, the opera, and the arts. We are very active in the contemporary community in Chicago and enjoy promoting the cultural aspects of the city."
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