Patient claims vision loss after laser procedure by doctor licensed without passing required tests
Hannah Ellis was allowed to substitute an Oklahoma exam in place of her national exams when she applied for a Kentucky license.
LOUISVILLE, Ky. — A malpractice lawsuit has been filed against a Kentucky optometrist who was licensed despite failing every portion of her national exam, according to a WAVE News investigation.
The lawsuit centers on Hannah Ellis, one of 21 optometrists licensed in Kentucky without passing all required exams. Ellis was one of three optometrists permitted to substitute an Oklahoma exam instead of completing the national test.
Christopher Renner filed the lawsuit against Ellis in October 2024, alleging he sought treatment from her in November 2023 for blurred vision in his right eye. The visit took place nearly two years after Ellis received her license.
Laser procedure allegedly caused vision loss
According to the lawsuit, Ellis performed a laser procedure on Renner’s right eye. After the procedure, Renner experienced vision loss, and a specialist Ellis referred him to later identified chorioretinal scarring in the eye.
The lawsuit claims Ellis entered incorrect settings into the laser before carrying out the procedure. Renner alleges he is now legally blind in his right eye and experiences visual hallucinations as a result.
Phone calls to Renner’s attorney and Ellis went unanswered. Ellis’ attorney denied all allegations in a response filed with the court.
The case is scheduled to go to trial in December. Renner is expected to complete a medical examination for the defense by Friday.
There was no evidence the three optometrists were providing poor care. The tip about the malpractice lawsuit surfaced after that report aired.
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