Erica Shelton, OD, PhD

Dr. Shelton is a courtesy clinical assistant professor of practice in the Division of Health Behavior and Health Promotion at The Ohio State University College of Public Health and an assistant professor - practice in the College of Optometry. As an optometrist and vision researcher, her work centers on advancing pediatric vision health by reducing disparities in access to eye care and strengthening the public health infrastructure that support early detection of vision disorders.

Dr. Shelton’s research integrates epidemiology, health behavior and vision science to understand how social determinants of health influence children’s access to vision care and long term eye health outcomes. She has spent time using national and state surveillance systems to examine unmet pediatric vision care needs, vision related quality of life in Appalachian Ohio, and disparities in pediatric utilization of eye care services.

Dr. Shelton has been recognized with multiple honors, including the Prevent Blindness Rising Visionary Award, the Ohio Optometric Foundation Archer Award for Humanitarian Service and several fellowships from the American Academy of Optometry Foundation.

Her work aims to strengthen public health approaches to children’s eye care by improving surveillance, supporting equitable access and enhancing family-centered education and engagement.