29/03/2024
As Women's History month comes to a close, let's take a moment to reflect on the legacy of one of the game changers in ophthalmology and in forwarding the field of ophthalmic assisting, Dr. Patricia Bath. Dr. Bath was an ophthalmologist, philanthropist, laser scientist, and inventor. Her accomplishments include the invention of a new device and technique for cataract surgery known as laserphaco, the creation of a new discipline known as "community ophthalmology," and appointment as the first woman chair of ophthalmology in the United States, at Drew-UCLA in 1983. Her interest, experience, and research on cataracts lead to her invention of a new device and method to remove cataracts—the laserphaco probe. When she first conceived of the device in 1981, her idea was more advanced than the technology available at the time. It took her nearly five years to complete the research and testing needed to make it work and apply for a patent. Today the device is use worldwide and has forever changed the way cataract surgery is performed, leading to greatly improved outcomes. With the keratoprosthesis device, Dr. Bath made significant history! In 1977, she and three other colleagues founded the American Institute for the Prevention of Blindness, an organization whose mission is to protect, preserve, and restore the gift of sight. The AIPB is based on the principle that eyesight is a basic human right and that primary eye care must be made available to all people, everywhere, regardless of their economic status. Much of the work of the AIPB is done though ophthalmic assistants, who are trained in programs at major universities. Dr. Patricia Bath, indeed, a trailblazer, and a wonderful way for us to close out this year's Women's History Month! Thank you for your gifts! 11/02/1942-05/30/2019. 👏🎉🧐
