Joseph H. Krug, Jr., MD
Providing advanced cataract and glaucoma care to Charlotte, NC patients at Horizon Eye Care’s Cotswold location.
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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
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- 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…”
“Dr James was very communicative and thorough in his exam and left us feeling well prepared for new glasses.”
“Efficient, friendly!”
“I appreciated that Dr. Tomasko took as much time as I needed to explain my options & answer all my questions.”
“I was very impressed with Dr. Minkowski. He was very cordial and professional and obviously knowledgeable. I have very complicated eye issues and he had me do all the tests and did…”
“This was my first visit with Dr. Cameron and as a patient at Horizon. I did not have a long wait. The attendants were pleasant & professional. Dr. Cameron was very thorough,…”
“I've been Dr. James' patient for about 8 or 9 years. He's thorough, genuinely interested in eye health, collaborative with care options and very efficient. I'm very satisfied!”
“Really appreciated the details/explanation about the examination and results.”
“I was completely satisfied with my visit. Everything was explained clearly and questions were asked. I love the communication process. TY”
“Great dialogue in my health and felt he was listening to my feedback. Thorough exam but really efficient.”
“Check-in staff who arrives at 7 to set up for. Day, check-out male staff, Fiona, specialist who conducts comparative studies with machine are exemplary. Dr. Minkowski is highly professional and efficient.”
“Overall great experience!”
“Took less than hour. First time meeting Dr James. Accurate and knowledgeable. Asked questions..”
“Dr Tomasko made the whole blepharoplasty a piece of cake from start to finish. I felt cared for by confident, experienced hands.”
“Excellent provider care! Dr. Garcia is knowledgeable patient and careful. I trust her with the health of my eyes and highly recommend her.”
“Attention to details about my eyes with comparison fr last years visit to this year. Professional in every way. His Assistant sat in the room transcribing Dr Ryder’s comments. It took me…”
“Had a good visit.”
Serving the Charlotte Community
Dr. Krug is proud to serve patients from our conveniently located Cotswold area office.
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