The clinic has a rich history of providing exceptional eye care in the region. It all started in 1993 when Dr. Schmidt founded the clinic in Weimar, before later relocating to Erfurt. This was three years after the reunification to one German country. Before this time, during the GDR era, everything was state-owned, and the vast majority of surgeries were only performed in hospitals. Dr. Schmidt’s step to establish a clinic after those challenging times was groundbreaking. ‘We’ve come a long way since then,’ shares Dr. Röckl. ‘Now it’s the opposite. Only a few cataract surgeries are done in the hospital, and most of them are done in private practices.’
‘We function exceptionally well as a team and patients notice this too. It gives them confidence in us.’
Over the years, the clinic has grown in stature, attracting skilled surgeons and dedicated medical professionals to join its ranks. Dr. Schmidt retired in 2019, passing the torch to Dr. Röckl and Dr. Neugebauer, who have carried on the clinic’s legacy of excellence.
What distinguishes Eye Center Erfurt is the seamless processes that have been meticulously developed over the years and the harmonious work atmosphere. Dr. Röckl reflects on this: ‘We have a grown structure and extensive experience, enabling us to achieve fast and efficient processes, resulting in a remarkably optimized workflow.’ Dr. Neugebauer adds, ‘We always do the same thing every day, ensuring consistency and delivering high-quality care. It is hard work to maintain this level of dedication, but it is what makes us successful.’ Dr. Röckl also emphasizes the importance of their team, saying, ‘We function exceptionally well as a team, and that creates a strong foundation and a positive work environment. It is crucial and very important. And patients notice this too. It gives them confidence in us.’ The optimization efforts extend beyond people and processes to the clinic’s floorplan. In 2013, a renovation project was undertaken, which included the establishment of a dedicated room for patient preparation and streamlined postoperative care. The renovation was carefully planned and executed by Dr. Schmidt and Dr. Neugebauer, further contributing to the clinic’s overall success.
‘I’m truly proud of our young doctors, who establish meaningful connections with our patients, going beyond the treatments and IOLs.’
Their well-established routine allows for individualized procedures, ensuring that each patient receives personalized attention within the clinic’s framework. Dr. Röckl expresses her pride in the presence of numerous talented young doctors at the clinic, who exhibit genuine enthusiasm and exceptional skills. ‘I’m truly proud of our young doctors, who are dedicated to providing personalized treatment. They establish meaningful connections with our patients, going beyond the treatments and IOLs. Their interactions make a difference.’
‘Our future plans include expanding our refractive surgery offerings, providing patients with a wider range of high-quality vision options.’
Looking ahead, Dr. Röckl and Dr. Neugebauer recognize the importance of staying updated with emerging trends and advancements in ophthalmology. Eye Center Erfurt is strategically positioned in Erfurt. There is an increasing shift towards outpatient care in Germany as a whole. Dr. Röckl emphasizes their advantageous location: ‘Our location in Erfurt is exceptional, allowing us to cater to the needs of our patients in Thuringia.’ Dr. Neugebauer adds, ‘Our future plans include expanding our refractive surgery offerings, providing patients with a wider range of high-quality vision options. We are committed to continuing our tradition of personalized care that goes beyond standard procedures, ensuring our patients receive the utmost attention and satisfaction.’