Pauline F. Ilsen

Pauline F. Ilsen, OD, is an Associate Professor at the Southern California College of Optometry (SCCO), Marshall B. Ketchum University, and serves as the Externship & Residency Coordinator at the West Los Angeles VA Health Care Center. She is also the Assistant Chief of Optometry at the VA facility, where she supervises fourth-year optometry interns and residents in clinical training.

Education:

• BS, Southern California College of Optometry (SCCO)
• OD, Southern California College of Optometry (SCCO)
• Residency in Hospital-Based Optometry/Geriatrics, West Los Angeles VA Medical Center

Dr. Ilsen's research and clinical interests focus on advanced diagnostic methods in optometry, including laboratory testing, diagnostic imaging, and radiology. She has extensive expertise in neuro-optometry, orbital disease, and the ocular manifestations of systemic conditions. Her work bridges clinical optometry with geriatric and hospital-based care, emphasizing patient-centered diagnostics and interdisciplinary collaboration.

Although specific article titles are not listed, her scholarly output includes over 25 co-authored publications in optometric journals and more than 40 poster presentations at major national and international optometry conferences, indicating a sustained contribution to clinical optometric science.

Professional Recognition:

• Fellow of the American Academy of Optometry

Dr. Ilsen plays a significant role in optometric education and policy, serving as a Council Member for the Advanced Competence in Medical Optometry (ACMO) examination at the National Board of Examiners in Optometry. She regularly lectures at the Greater Los Angeles VA Clinical Seminars (Grand Rounds) on topics such as optical coherence tomography, ocular ultrasonography, and congenital ocular anomalies. She supervises optometry interns and residents, contributing to the training of future optometrists in high-acuity clinical settings.

She is actively involved in professional organizations including the American Academy of Optometry, the American Optometric Association, and the California Optometric Association, supporting both clinical standards and educational advancement in the field.