Nationwide Vision Marks 40 Years of Eye Care Excellence in Arizona
Nationwide Vision, one of Arizona’s most recognized names in vision care, is celebrating a major milestone in 2025 — 40 years of continuous service to patients across the state. What began in 1985 as a single optometry practice in Chandler has grown into a statewide network of more than 70 clinics, making Nationwide Vision one of Arizona’s largest and most trusted eye care providers.
The anniversary not only highlights four decades of growth and success but also underscores the company’s long-standing mission: to make high-quality, accessible, and affordable vision care available to communities throughout Arizona. Today, Nationwide Vision serves tens of thousands of patients every year, providing a full spectrum of services ranging from routine eye exams to advanced medical eye care and eyewear solutions.
Humble Beginnings in Chandler
Nationwide Vision was founded in 1985 by two forward-thinking optometrists, Dr. Neal Weinstein and Dr. Mark Hechtman. Their vision was simple but ambitious: create a practice that could combine top-tier clinical care with value-driven services, making comprehensive eye care accessible to all Arizonans.
At the time, eye care options were more fragmented, with patients often needing to visit multiple providers for exams, treatment, and eyewear. Weinstein and Hechtman sought to change that model. Their Chandler office became known for providing everything under one roof — a full-service optometry clinic combined with a convenient selection of eyewear.
What started as a single local practice with a few employees quickly resonated with patients, and the demand for quality, accessible vision care fueled the group’s expansion. Within a few years, Nationwide Vision began opening additional locations across Arizona, steadily building a reputation for trusted care and convenience.
Four Decades of Growth and Expansion
Fast forward to 2025, and Nationwide Vision has become one of the largest vision care networks in the state, serving patients through more than 70 locations. With its growth, the organization has evolved far beyond basic optometry. Today, its clinics offer a wide range of services:
- Comprehensive eye exams to diagnose and manage refractive errors, eye disease, and overall vision health.
- Medical eye care, including management of conditions such as glaucoma, cataracts, diabetic eye disease, and macular degeneration.
- Children’s eye care, ensuring early detection and treatment of vision issues in young patients.
- Eyewear services, with extensive collections of frames, lenses, and contact lenses to meet diverse patient needs.
- Participation in managed vision plans, making it easier for patients with insurance coverage to access care.
The combination of clinical expertise, patient-centered service, and affordability has cemented Nationwide Vision’s role as a go-to provider for families across Arizona.
A Philosophy of Purpose-Driven Care
According to Dr. Jarrod Cross, an optometrist and President of Nationwide Optometry, P.C., the organization’s journey has always been about more than just growth.
What started as one local practice with a bold vision has become an integral part of the health and well-being of thousands of Arizona families,” Dr. Cross said. “We’re proud to celebrate 40 years of providing trusted eye care, and we remain just as committed to serving our communities as we were in 1985.
This philosophy of care has guided Nationwide Vision’s expansion. Even as it has grown into a large network, the practice has remained true to its founding principles — accessibility, patient trust, and community involvement.
Community Engagement and Giving Back
A cornerstone of Nationwide Vision’s success has been its consistent commitment to community service. The organization has taken active steps to ensure that vision care is not limited to those who can afford it.
Over the years, Nationwide Vision has:
- Donated free eye exams and eyewear to underserved children, ensuring that young students have the vision support they need for learning and development.
- Supported local food and toy drives, contributing to broader community welfare beyond eye health.
- Partnered with schools and nonprofits to improve community health outcomes and increase awareness of the importance of regular eye exams.
These initiatives reflect the organization’s belief that eye care is not just a clinical service but a vital component of overall community health.
Joining the EyeCare Partners Network
In 2019, Nationwide Vision took another major step in its evolution by joining the EyeCare Partners (ECP) network, the nation’s leading provider of clinically integrated eye care. This partnership allowed Nationwide Vision to access expanded resources, advanced technologies, and additional professional development opportunities for its providers and staff — all while maintaining its strong Arizona identity.
“Nationwide Vision’s 40-year legacy is an example of the power of purpose-driven care and community connection,” said Sarah Wells, Optometry Division President at EyeCare Partners. “From its beginnings in Chandler to becoming one of Arizona’s leading vision care providers, Nationwide Vision has delivered accessible, high-quality eye care. We’re proud to celebrate the generations of patients, providers and our team members who have made this journey possible.”
By joining ECP, Nationwide Vision has been able to enhance its patient care while ensuring it continues to meet the needs of local communities.
Celebrating Four Decades of Service
To commemorate its 40th anniversary, Nationwide Vision has planned a series of celebratory activities that reflect its gratitude toward patients, employees, and the community.
Statewide Anniversary Celebration – September 5
All Nationwide Vision locations across Arizona will host special anniversary events on September 5, featuring:
- Treats and giveaways for patients and visitors.
- Children’s activities designed to engage families and raise awareness about pediatric eye care.
- Special promotions and discounts on eyewear to thank patients for their loyalty.
Sharing Stories from the Community
In addition to the in-office events, Nationwide Vision is highlighting the voices of its community. From now until September 5, stories from longtime patients and team members will be shared on Nationwide Vision and EyeCare Partners’ social media channels. These stories will showcase the personal impact of the practice, from patients who have relied on Nationwide Vision for decades to staff members who have built careers serving Arizona communities.
