MEET THE DOCTORS
Owner | Optometrist
Dr. Natalie Chai
B. Sc, OD, FCCSO
Dr. Natalie Chai was born and raised in Edmonton, Alberta. She attended the University of Alberta before earning her joint Bachelor’s Degree in Vision Science and Doctor of Optometry with distinction from Pacific University College of Optometry in Forest Grove, Oregon, in 2014. She recently earned her Fellowship in the Canadian College of Specialties in Optometry (FCCSO) in May 2023 which demonstrates her successful completion of the rigorous requirements to become a Fellow. With this designation, Dr. Chai will be using this as a stepping stone to further pursue her joint Specialization Designation in Ocular Surface Disease (Dry Eye Disease) and Specialty Contact Lenses in the next few months. There’s still a lot of work ahead for Dr. Chai!
​
Before taking a leap of faith with her husband to create and open Trifecta Optometry, Dr. Chai has had experience in all modalities of optometry serving Edmonton and surrounding areas for the last 9 years, refining her knowledge and skills. Over time, it was evident there were gaps that inhibited the way she envisioned providing a high level of care for her patients. The old adage of “being in charge of your own destiny” was realized and action was taken to bring that to fruition with Trifecta Optometry together with her husband.
​
Being married to an optometrist and in business together, this journey has been the ultimate act of partnership but they wouldn’t have it any other way. Outside of “shop talk”, Dr. Chai places high value on health and fitness, her faith, personal growth, travel and family. She is looking forward to starting a family soon.
Owner | Optometrist
Dr. Dylan Bartel
B. Sc, OD
Dr. Dylan Bartel was born in Saskatoon, Saskatchewan, and later moved to Edmonton, Alberta during his teen years. He graduated from M.E. Lazerte High School and went on to complete his Bachelor of Science at the University of Alberta. His passion for eye care led him south of the border to Pacific University College of Optometry in Forest Grove, Oregon, where he received his Doctor of Optometry degree.
​
Dr. Bartel successfully completed the Canadian Assessment of Competence in Optometry and the National Board of Examiners in Optometry in the United States, allowing him to hold licenses to practice in both Canada and the U.S.
​
Before opening Trifecta Optometry alongside his wife, Dr. Chai, Dr. Bartel worked for nearly a decade at an ophthalmology refractive surgical center in Edmonton. There, he honed his expertise in advanced surgical co-management, focusing on corneal collagen cross-linking, laser refractive procedures, and intraocular lens implants as part of cataract surgery care.
​
Through this work, he developed a deep interest in corneal health, keratoconus, and complex contact lens fittings—particularly scleral lenses. In recent years, he discovered a new passion for pediatric optometry, with a focus on myopia management and orthokeratology (Ortho-K) lenses, helping young patients safeguard their vision for the future.
​
Starting Trifecta Optometry with his wife has been a natural extension of his commitment to providing elevated, patient-focused care to the Edmonton community. Together, they envisioned a practice built on integrity, innovation, and a shared mission to make comprehensive eye care more accessible and personalized.
​
When he’s not in the clinic, Dr. Bartel spends his time prioritizing health, family, church, and faith. He enjoys golfing in the summer, snowboarding at Lake Louise in the winter, and settling in for NFL Sundays whenever he can.