Robert Burns grew up in Santa Cruz California. He attended U.C. Berkeley and earned a B.S in human physiology 1977, B.S in physiological optics 1978 and optometry degree 1980.

Dr Burns was in private optometry practice from 1980- 1984. Beginning in 1984 Dr Burns joined Kaiser Permanente Medical Group as an optometric clinician practicing the full scope of optometry. Dr Burns is also is licensed to practice optometry in Washington state.

Dr Burns is a member of the board of directors of Help Is On The Way Ministries.

Dr. Burns enjoys spending time with his family consisting of his wife and two adult daughters, Natalie and Lauren. Natalie recently graduated from USC medical school and is a first year intern at cottage hospital in Santa Barbara. Lauren is a graduate of the UCSC in sociology and is currently studying for a certificate as a veterinary technician. Dr Burns’ wife, Marilyn, is also an optometrist employed at BY

Dr Burns enjoys cooking, music and outdoors.