REFRACTIVE VISION SPECIALIST & MEDICAL VITREO-RETINAL FELLOW
Born and raised amidst the natural beauty of Hawaii, Dr. Kellen Kashiwa brings a deeply rooted local perspective to his practice at the Eye Center of Hawaii. With over twelve years of dedicated service as an optometrist at ECH, Dr. Kashiwa is a cornerstone of the community’s ocular health sector.
Dr. Kashiwa graduated with a Doctor of Optometry Degree from the Pacific University College of Optometry in Oregon. His academic focus was on low vision and retinal diseases, equipping him with specialized expertise in managing visual impairments that conventional methods cannot correct. His training encompasses the comprehensive examination and treatment planning for patients requiring tailored visual aids.
Prior to joining the Eye Center of Hawai’i, Dr. Kashiwa honed his skills at the Retina Institute of Hawaii, where he served as a technician and diagnostic photographer from 2008 to 2009. His international experience includes internships in Japan and China, enhancing his clinical skills with a global perspective.
Dr. Kashiwa is also committed to humanitarian efforts, having treated over 5000 patients in optometric missions across the Philippines, Peru, Nicaragua, Thailand, and Tanzania. In his spare time he does volunteer keiki vision assessment at homeless shelters and free diabetic retinal screenings throughout Hawaii. His dedication to improving vision transcends borders, making him not only a valued local optometrist but also a global vision care advocate.
Dr. Kashiwa is a clinical professor at Pacific University College of Optometry and University of Missouri College of Optometry. He has given lectures on topics including dry eye disease and sports vision therapy and consults with contact lens companies on sports training technologies. He also works with our local athletes to improve their vision including University of Hawaii athletics, MLB, NFL, and UFC athletes.
Dr. Kashiwa’s approach to eye care is informed by a blend of advanced medical training and a profound connection to his local roots, making him a trusted healthcare provider and community leader in Hawai’i.
As we celebrate Black History this month, we take a look at some remarkable pioneers whose persistence, dedication, innovation and leadership have paved the way and shaped the landscape of eye and vision science.
From top to right:
David K. McDonogh, MD, (1821 - 1893), was a slave who, became America's FIRST African American Ophthalmologist, practiced at the New York Eye and Ear Infirmary and even started a practice in Manhattan’s Village neighborhood.
Howard P. Venable, MD, (1913 – 1998) and his wife, Katie, started the Venable Student Research Fund in Ophthalmology with the goal of encouraging more black students to join the ophthalmology field. The fund supported resident research projects and provided resources for necessary equipment and housing. Venable retired in 1987 and in 1994 was awarded the American Academy of Ophthalmology’s Outstanding Humanitarian Award — the first African American to receive this honor. ... See MoreSee Less
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Great leaders look toward the future—shouldn’t you? This Presidents Day, take the first step toward better vision with LASIK, cataract surgery, or dry eye care!
🏝️ See the beauty of our islands with clear vision. ⛰ ... See MoreSee Less
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😍 Your Eyes Deserve a Love Story Too! 😍
Give yourself (or a loved one!) the gift of improved vision this Valentine’s Day! Imagine waking up glasses-free and seeing your world with clarity and confidence thanks to LASIK.
👁️ Ready to start your love story with clear vision? Schedule a consultation today! ... See MoreSee Less
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Age-Related Macular Degeneration (AMD) is a leading cause of vision loss in adults over 50, affecting central vision and making daily tasks like reading and driving difficult.
🔍 Know the Signs:
Blurry or distorted vision
Dark or empty spots in your central vision
Trouble recognizing faces
Early detection is key! Regular eye exams can help protect your vision. If you or a loved one are at risk, schedule an eye exam today! ... See MoreSee Less
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Wishing you a year filled with clear vision, good health, and prosperity! As we welcome the Year of the Snake, may your future be bright and full of new possibilities. 🐍
👁️ Start the new year seeing clearly—whether it's LASIK, cataract surgery, or a routine eye exam, we’re here to help you achieve better vision for a brighter tomorrow!
🏝️ From our ohana to yours, Hau’oli Makahiki Hou! 🎊 ... See MoreSee Less
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Low vision is when even with regular glasses, contact lenses, medicine, or surgery, people have difficulty seeing, which makes everyday tasks difficult to do. The leading causes of vision loss in older adults are age-related macular degeneration, diabetic retinopathy, cataract, and glaucoma. Eye Center of Hawaii provides support for these patients as well as preventative care to preserve vision by diagnosing and treating these conditions before they take vision. ... See MoreSee Less
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