Dr. Jill Helton specializes in the pre-operative and post-operative management of cataract and refractive surgery, as well as the diagnosis and treatment of complex eye diseases.

Dr. Helton attended the University of South Alabama and received a Bachelor of Science degree in 1994. Upon graduation, she attended the University of Alabama at Birmingham School of Optometry where she earned her doctorate.

Dr. Helton graduated with Cum Laude academic honors. Also, while attending optometry school, she was elected as a member of the Beta Sigma Kappa Honor Society. In addition to academic achievements, Dr. Helton chose to help those in need and participated in eye care mission trips while in optometry school, which she has continued to do.

After completing Optometry School, Dr. Helton fulfilled an ocular disease residency at VisionAmerica in Nashville, Tennessee, before becoming the Assistant Center Director of VisionAmerica of Gadsden. She currently serves as Center Director of VisionAmerica Cullman and Assistant Center Director of VisionAmerica Birmingham, as well as being a faculty member of the University of Alabama at Birmingham School of Optometry.

Dr. Helton is currently a member of the American Optometric Association. She has also served on various committees for the Alabama Optometric Association. In addition to an active ALOA membership, she is currently a member of the Birmingham Area Optometric Society. Dr. Helton has also served on the board of directors for the UAB School of Optometry Alumni Association.

What do you love most about being an eye doctor/surgeon? I love the relationships I get to form with my patients.  Caring for their vision and eye health is easier when they trust you enough to share details about their lives because they know you genuinely care.

What career would you pursue if you weren’t in medicine? Music producer

Do you have any pets?  I have an adorable and visually-impaired 17-year-old dog, who is my constant shadow.

How do you like to spend your time away from the office? I enjoy exploring the fantastic Birmingham food scene with my husband and other foodie friends, traveling to other great food destinations and of course spoiling my dog.