Originally published as “Featuring eSupport Member, Ann Wheatley, RN” in VMG Health’s eSupport Member Newsletter, September 2026.
Few people have experienced ophthalmic surgery from as many perspectives as Ann Wheatley. With three decades of nursing experience and nearly every surgical role on her résumé, Ann now serves as Surgery Director at Tyson Eye in Cape Coral, Florida. Ann’s extensive background has given her a deep understanding of both patient care and the operational challenges that happen behind the scenes in a busy ambulatory surgery center.
Her career began in a Coronary ICU before she found her passion in the operating room. She credits much of her success to the strong clinical foundation she gained through her education at a hospital-based nursing school. Today, she oversees a busy ophthalmic surgery center performing more than 4,000 procedures each year, balancing patient care, operations, compliance, staffing, and team development.
Recently, Tyson Eye welcomed VMG Health for a mock survey in preparation for its upcoming AAAHC accreditation survey. The experience provided the team with valuable guidance, practical recommendations, and a clearer understanding of the accreditation process. Most importantly, the collaborative approach helped the staff feel more confident and prepared for the survey ahead.
What motivates Ann most is working alongside a team committed to learning, adapting, and supporting one another. She takes pride in creating an environment where patients receive excellent care and employees feel valued. Outside the ASC, Ann stays just as busy as the mother of 16-year-old triplets, an experience she credits with helping her handle just about anything that comes her way.
Advice from Ann to her younger, greener self as an ASC Clinical Director:
“Don’t expect to know everything on day one. Ask questions, keep learning, and surround yourself with people who are willing to share their knowledge. Embrace change, listen to your team, and remember that effective leadership isn’t about doing it all yourself. Focus on building a strong, supportive team and keeping patient safety and quality at the center of every decision.”