I was honored to co-chair the AAO 2025 symposium “Innovations in Ophthalmology from Around the World” alongside Lisa M. Nijm, MD, JD and Mildred M.G. Olivier, MD, FACS. Co-sponsored by the AMA Ophthalmology Section Council, this symposium offered a dynamic exploration of the latest innovations in ophthalmology while underscoring the critical role of health policy in advancing patient care globally.
Topics spanned cutting-edge developments across subspecialties along with the transformative potential of artificial intelligence in ophthalmology. We also highlighted the intersection of global health policy, with a continued emphasis on equity, access, and the systems that shape patient outcomes.
Michael Levitt launched the program with “Generative AI Meets Design Thinking: Co-creating Ideas to Motivate Ophthalmologists for Grassroots Advocacy,” offering a fresh framework for engaging clinicians in policy and advocacy. Sophia Ying Wang, MD, MS followed with “AI and Health Disparities: Investigating Bias and Ensuring Fairness in AI Algorithms for Glaucoma,” emphasizing the urgent need to address algorithmic inequities as AI becomes increasingly central to clinical decision-making.
Next, Weijie V. Lin, MD presented “What Do They Have That We Don’t? Comparing International Anterior Segment Therapies and Health Policies,” providing a comparative global lens on treatment patterns, regulatory approaches, and opportunities for cross-border collaboration.
I then had the privilege of introducing the annual Parker Heath Lecture, delivered by AMA Board Chair David H. Aizuss, MD, who spoke on “AMA’s Role in AI.” His lecture offered a forward-looking examination of how national policy leadership shapes the future of artificial intelligence and the evolution of healthcare delivery systems. He provided outstanding insights into strengthening physician-patient relationships, enhancing quality of care, and preparing our field for the next era of innovation.
The session concluded with an engaging Q&A and closing discussion, rounding out a morning centered on innovation, equity, and the global exchange of ideas.
AAO members can view the full symposium through the virtual meeting guide here.
