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COVID-19 MESSAGE: Effective 1/23/2023, we are now mask optional inside our clinic. We ask that you reschedule your appointment if you are experiencing any COVID-related symptoms; such as fever, cough, shortness of breath, sore throat or other flu-like symptoms. Thank you!

Malcolm McCannel, M.D.

  • Dr.
    Malcolm McCannel, MD.

    Dr. Malcolm McCannel, internationally acclaimed as a pioneer of the intraocular lens for cataract surgery and the McCannel Suture technique, founded our practice in 1949.

    Dr. McCannel grew up in Minot, ND, the son of an ophthalmologist. He stated, 'I always knew I would go into ophthalmology. It provides the opportunity to treat all age groups, to treat both sexes, to experience cognitive and analytical medical decision making, and it allows for a very satisfactory surgical life. Vision also is interrelated to so many internal medicine disorders, such as diabetes, neurologic disorders, brain tumors, and many others.'

    Dr. McCannel attended the University of Minnesota for his pre-med studies, followed by receiving his MD from Temple University in Philadelphia. He completed an internship at St. Paul's Ancker Hospital and a fellowship under Dr. Frank E. Burch at the University of Minnesota. Later, he also received his Master of Science in Ophthalmology from the University of Minnesota.

    Over the course of Dr. McCannel's career, he participated in numerous international eye care projects including Project HOPE, Project Orbis, the International Eye Foundation, and MEDICO-CARE. As part of these programs, Dr. McCannel provided treatment to thousands of patients in underprivileged countries for glaucoma and other eye diseases.

    Dr. McCannel received many awards recognizing his outstanding achievement in medicine and professional contributions to medical schools, along with his lifetime achievements in charitable activities and community service.

    • 1983 Charles Bolles Bolles-Rogers Award from Hennepin County Medical Society
    • 1992 Alumni Service Award from University of Minnesota
    • 1996 Outstanding Humanitarian Award from the American Academy of Ophthalmology
    • 2003 Harold S. Diehl Award given by University of Minnesota Alumni Society
    • 2003 George T. Tani, M.D. Humanitarian Award (5th recipient)
    • 2004 Honored Guest Award from American Society of Cataract and Refractive Surgery

    Dr. McCannel credited his mentors, his father and Dr. Frank E. Burch, for his compassion, principles, ethics, and medical expertise which formed the foundation for his own practice, Ophthalmology, PA, in 1949. This foundation continues to be the basis of our mission statement to today. His warmth, humor, charm and sensitivity to patients' feelings are well remembered by his patients, staff, and friends. Many also remember his passion for collecting 20th century art. All of which can still be seen and experienced in our office today. In 2010, the practice was renamed McCannel Eye Clinic in his honor. Dr. McCannel passed away at the age of 96 on December 30, 2012.