About Dr. Van Heuveln
Dr. Van Heuveln graduated from the University of Nebraska-Lincoln with an undergraduate degree in Mechanical Engineering. After completing his undergraduate program, he pursued his Doctor of Optometry Degree at the Arizona College of Optometry.
Dr. Van Heuveln’s background in engineering gives him a precise, analytical understanding of optical systems and modern laser vision correction technology.
Growing up in the Black Hills of South Dakota, Dr. Van Heuveln found a passion for the outdoors. In his free time, he enjoys hunting, fishing, sports, and spending time with family.
View Doctor CV
Heath Van Heuveln, OD
Professional Profile
Doctor of Optometry with clinical experience across primary eye care, medical eye care, refractive surgery, and ophthalmic co-management. Experienced in comprehensive examinations, pre- and post-operative LASIK care, refractive surgery consultations, dry eye management, diagnostic testing, and patient education. Brings an engineering background with strong analytical, technical, and problem-solving skills.
Education
- Doctor of Optometry: Arizona College of Optometry, Midwestern University
- Bachelor of Science, Mechanical Engineering: University of Nebraska–Lincoln
Clinical & Professional Experience
- Optometrist — Carrot LASIK and Eye Center
- Mesa, AZ | Aug 2026 – Present
- Provide comprehensive eye examinations and primary eye care.
- Perform pre- and post-operative evaluations and management for LASIK and other refractive surgery patients.
- Conduct refractive surgery consultations and counsel patients regarding surgical options and expectations.
- Provide ophthalmic co-management and coordinate care for patients undergoing refractive procedures.
- Evaluate and manage dry eye disease and other common ocular conditions.
- Utilize diagnostic testing including OCT, corneal topography, and visual field testing as clinically indicated.
- Educate patients regarding diagnoses, treatment plans, surgical care, and follow-up recommendations.
- Optometric Intern — Midwestern University Eye Institute
- Glendale, AZ | Feb 2026 – Aug 2026
- Provided comprehensive primary and medical eye care under clinical supervision.
- Performed diagnostic testing, ocular disease evaluation, treatment planning, and patient education.
- Optometric Intern — East Valley Eye Center
- Burbank, CA | Nov 2025 – Feb 2026
- Provided patient care in a clinical optometric setting with emphasis on comprehensive examinations and ocular disease management.
- Optometric Intern — Southwest Eye Institute
- El Paso, TX | Aug 2025 – Nov 2025
- Provided comprehensive eye care and participated in the evaluation and management of ocular disease.
- Optometric Intern — Gallup Eye Group
- Gallup, NM | Jun 2025 – Aug 2025
- Provided comprehensive eye examinations and participated in diagnosis, treatment, and patient education.
- Optometric Clinical Experience — VisualEyes Eye Clinic
- Rapid City, SD | Jun 2022 – Aug 2022
- Supported clinical eye care and gained early patient-care experience in an optometric practice.
Research & Academic Experience
- Research Project: Immediate Effects of Cataract Surgery on Visual Acuity — Midwestern University
- Glendale, AZ | 2024 – 2025
- Conducted research and developed a scientific poster in collaboration with faculty and ophthalmology.
- Academic Tutor — Midwestern University
- Glendale, AZ | 2023 – 2025
- Tutored students in geometric optics, ocular anatomy and physiology, and pharmacology.
- Assisted with laboratory instruction and student learning activities.
Volunteer Experience
- SVOSH Mission Trip — Student Volunteer Optometric Services to Humanity
- Hermosillo, Mexico | Mar 2024
- Participated in an international volunteer eye-care mission providing vision services to underserved communities.
- Volunteer Clinician — The Neighborhood Christian Clinic
- Phoenix, AZ | 2022 – 2024
- Provided eye examinations and vision care to underserved patients in the Phoenix area.
Honors & Awards
- Clinician of the Quarter (Spring 2026)
- Eagle Scout
- All State Orchestra
- Stevens HS Soccer Work Ethic Award
- George Beadle Scholarship
- Gatzmeyer Scholarship
Technical & Professional Skills
- Clinical: Comprehensive eye examinations; refractive surgery care; LASIK pre/post-operative management; co-management; dry eye management; OCT; corneal topography; visual fields; patient education
- Engineering & Technical: MATLAB; SOLIDWORKS; AutoCAD; data analysis; nonlinear dynamic system simulation
- Languages: English (advanced); Spanish (moderate)
