Warwick doctor fined for performing surgery on wrong eye

WARWICK, R.I. (WPRI) — A Warwick ophthalmologist has been reprimanded for reportedly performing laser eye surgery on the wrong eye of a patient two years ago, 12 News has learned.

The Rhode Island Department of Health has fined Dr. Charles Calenda $1,100 for making the mistake, according to a consent order made public earlier this month. Calenda is also required to take and pass a pre-approved course on universal protocol at his own expense.

Calenda, who's listed online as a provider for Calenda EyeCare Center, operated on the female patient back on June 20, 2023.

The consent order noted that the patient was being treated for complications that developed following cataract surgery, and that the condition "was worse in [her] left eye."

The patient agreed to undergo the laser eye surgery