Joseph H. Krug, Jr., MD
Providing advanced cataract and glaucoma care to Charlotte, NC patients at Horizon Eye Care’s Cotswold location.
I’d like to…
Dr. Krug’s Specialities
Meet the Doctor
Dr. Joseph Krug has been caring for patients since 1990, building a career on exceptional care in cataract surgery and the medical and surgical management of glaucoma. With more than three decades of experience, he combines clinical precision with a genuine dedication to improving patients’ quality of life, earning their trust through clear communication and compassionate guidance.
Recognized as both a physician and leader, Dr. Krug currently serves as chairman of the ophthalmology department at Novant Health Presbyterian Medical Center and has trained and mentored future generations of eye specialists. His career has blended high-level research, teaching, and community service, making him a trusted expert in Charlotte and beyond.
Expertise & Specialities
Dr. Joseph Krug is a fellowship-trained glaucoma specialist and experienced cataract surgeon with more than 30 years of practice in Charlotte. His expertise spans the full range of glaucoma treatment and advanced cataract care, supported by decades of clinical research and academic leadership.
Areas of expertise include:
- Medical and surgical management of complex glaucoma cases
- Advanced cataract surgery, including laser-assisted techniques
- Clear lens and refractive lens exchange for reducing dependence on glasses and contacts
- Micro-incisional glaucoma surgery (iStent and canaloplasty) for safer, faster recovery
- Comprehensive general ophthalmology for patients of all ages
Dr. Krug’s decades of experience, extensive research contributions, and leadership at Novant Health make him one of Charlotte’s most accomplished glaucoma and cataract specialists.
Education & Training
Dr. Krug earned his undergraduate degree from Johns Hopkins University before completing his Doctor of Medicine at Columbia University College of Physicians and Surgeons, where he was elected to the Alpha Omega Alpha Honor Society. He completed his internship at New York Hospital, Cornell Medical Center & Memorial Sloan-Kettering Cancer Center, and his ophthalmology residency at Wills Eye Hospital in Philadelphia.
He then completed a glaucoma fellowship at the Massachusetts Eye and Ear Infirmary at Harvard Medical School, where he also served as Former Assistant Director of the Glaucoma Consultant Service. He has since published more than two dozen scientific papers, reviews, abstracts, and book chapters, and lectured at national and international glaucoma meetings.
Memberships & Recognition
Dr. Krug serves as Chairman of the Department of Ophthalmology at Novant Health Presbyterian Medical Center. He has consulted for an international pharmaceutical corporation, provided free eye care for underserved patients through the Charlotte Health Center, and has been recognized multiple times as one of Charlotte’s Top Docs.
Among the highlights of his distinguished career, Dr. Krug served as team ophthalmologist for the Carolina Panthers, Charlotte Hornets, and Charlotte Checkers, a role that reflects the exceptional community trust he has earned over more than three decades of excellence in Charlotte.
Insights From Dr. Krug
Medically reviewed by
- Posted in Blog, Eye Exams, LASIK & Optical
Medically reviewed by
- Posted in Blog & Glaucoma
Vision Restored, Lives Transformed
“I transferred from CEENTA to Dr Ryder at Horizon Eye Care-Cotswold. Today was my first appointment. I can say I was pleasantly surprised. I had absolutely no wait time. The office has…”
“Dr. Cameron was friendly yet quite professional. His exam seemed thorough and his recommendations sound. He answered questions I had and took his time - he was not rushed to get to…”
“All staff from checking in at the front desk, throughout my appointment were very helpful. Dr.Minkowski did a great job of explaining options/the process of cataract surgery with me, especially given my…”
“I have been coming to Dr. Minkowski for over 2 years and he is an awesome doctor. He makes you feel welcomed and worry free. He explains everything in detail and will…”
“I was always treated very friendly and professional and helpful”
“Good visit with Dr . Mina .”
“Dr. Garcia was cheerful and engaged. She took the time to explain the findings of the tests. She also happily answered some questions I had concerning my vision overall.”
“I had to wait about 25-30 minutes to see the doctor.”
“Excellent experience with my recent visit. This was on a Saturday, which is very convenient given my busy schedule. Dr Cameron took his time to do a thorough eye exam. Friendly and…”
“Dr. Kaluzny provides outstanding professional treatment and recommendations. The wait time spent in the office of two hours was unacceptable.”
“Dr. Joe Krug sets the standard for ophthalmology. He retires in a week…a huge loss.”
“He’s an amazing ophthalmologist. He has saved my sight two times in the past 10 years. He will be missed by a lot of glaucoma patients.”
“I always feel listened to and understand the explanations.”
“The waiting room needs new furniture. The seats are so worn I was afraid they would damage my clothes.”
“Dr Ryder and staff were amazing.”
“Wonderful and attentive staff. They all work together with Dr Stein to make sure I am receiving the best care. I like that they always answer any questions or concerns that I…”
“The server at this location was much faster and streamlined than other locations I’ve been to for my eye care. Much less crowded and each step in the process was handled much…”
“Professional eye care. Dr. Wang was cordial as well as her assistant.”
“I have been seeing Dr Krug and staff for over a decade. Great professionalism, competence and courtesy.”
“The doctor was very, very, very thorough and really deep examinations of my eyes to make sure everything was OK. I was very impressed with the amount of care and knowledge she…”
Serving the Charlotte Community
Dr. Krug is proud to serve patients from our conveniently located Cotswold area office.
Browse locations:
