Derek J. Dawson, M.D. is a board certified general ophthalmologist specializing in cataract surgery. He received his Bachelor of Science degree with a double major in both biochemistry and chemistry from the University of Southern California. Following his undergraduate work at U.S.C., Dr. Dawson continued his education and earned his medical degree from Maherry Medical College in Nashville, TN. Upon completion of medical school, Dr. Dawson sustained his postgraduate education in a Flexible Medicine program at Howard University Hospital in Washington D.C.

While at Howard University Hospital, Dr. Dawson served six months at the Armed Forces Institute of Pathology under the direct supervision of Lorenz Zimmerman, M.D. and Ian MacLean, M.D. Dr. Dawson also completed a seven month clinical rotation at Children’s Hospital of Washington D.C. under the direct supervision of Marshall Parks, M.D.

Dr. Dawson is certified by the American Board of Ophthalmology, and is a past member of the American Medical Association, past Fellow of the American Academy of Ophthalmology, and is a member of the National Medical Association. Additionally, Dr. Dawson is active in his community serving as Board Member of the Merrillville Little League and is a Member of Kappa Alpha Psi Fraternity.

Dr. Dawson is known as one of the finest and most experienced cataract surgeons in the Chicago area. His focus is providing the highest level of surgical eye care for his patients.

• Board Certified Ophthalmologist
• Medical degree - Meherry Medical School, Nashville Tennessee, 1980
• Residency in Ophthalmology - Howard University Hospital in Washington, D.C., 1984
• 1984 Most Outstanding Resident Award
• Staff Privileges:
  • Ingalls - Harvey Illinois
  • Trinity Hospital - Chicago Illinois
  • Magna Surgical Center - Chicago Illinois
  • Palos Heights Hospital - Palos Heights Illinois