Dr. Joseph Silva decided to become an optometrist because he enjoys the challenge of determining what a patient’s problem is and then making a proper diagnosis. “I really enjoy working with patients and helping them whether it’s a vision problem that can be easily fixed with contact lenses or something more serious that requires working with an ophthalmologist,” he explains.

Dr. Silva has long been involved in helping people with their eyes. A graduate of the New England College of Optometry, he has performed internships at community health centers and hospitals and also worked as an optician earlier in his career. “I have always had a great fascination with all things related to the eyes, both in their health and function and how the eyes work with the brain to provide us with vision – which is the primary way we perceive the world around us.”

For Dr. Silva, good communication is a very important part of being an optometrist. “I like to explain everything that I do in the exam room to patients in relatable ways, and it can be challenging to do so in a manner that doesn’t use excessive jargon or words that are too technical. In addition, I always try to ask patients for their input and feedback about particular exam options, treatments or tests, so they feel engaged and know that communication isn’t just a one-way street.”

In his practice at Reliant, Dr. Silva enjoys being able to collaborate with other doctors to make sure patients receive the proper care. “I really enjoy the collaborative approach we have here at Reliant Medical Group. We have great access to a patient’s primary care doctor as well as different specialists, so it’s really easy to follow up on a patient’s care.”

When he is not busy helping patients, Dr. Silva enjoys spending time with his wife and children. He and his wife have a shared interest in animals, and also love gardening and going to museums. Dr. Silva also enjoys sports, especially the Boston Celtics, as well as all kinds of music.