October 4th, 2021
Episode 13: Dr. Sriranjani Padmanabhan, MD
A discussion on
“Leading with Purpose: Preparation for Global Ophthalmology training & it’s application back home in the States”
Dr. Sriranjani Padmanabhan, MD
In this episode of Open Globe Talk, we feature Dr. Sriranjani Padmanabhan, a glaucoma specialist and a global ophthalmology-trained surgeon at the University of California at San Francisco.
Dr. Padmanabhan earned her medical degree at the University of Rochester School of Medicine and Dentistry and completed her residency in ophthalmology at the Scheie Eye Institute at University of Pennsylvania. Soon after completing her glaucoma fellowship at Emory Eye Center, she completed a fellowship in international ophthalmology and global blindness prevention at the University of Nebraska Medical Center’s Stanley M. Truhlsen Eye Institute.
Hear about her wonderful journey and the tips she shares on how to approach global ophthalmology as a career practicing it to serve under-resourced populations!
Key discussion points:
What made Dr. Padmanabhan specialize in Ophthalmology,?
Why specifically glaucoma as a sub-specialty?
Dr. Padmanabhan’s current practice setting serving the underserved at San Francisco General Hospital
The unique underserved population in San Francisco
Homeless and housing-insecure
What propelled Dr. Padmanabhan to pursue a global ophthalmology fellowship?
The importance of recognizing individual pursuits
Influence of global ophthalmology training into current practice
Similarities and differences of eyecare disparities affecting underserved communities in the US and in LMICs
Continued usage of Manual small incision cataract surgery (MSICS)
Options to continue global ophthalmology training education post-fellowship?
Focusing on safety-net hospitals, rural settings in the US for those considering practice locally
Influencing personal factors
The things to look out for when considering global ophthalmology fellowship training?
Financial preparation (some programs may already consider these into the funding for fellows but keep in mind)
The importance of early consultation from other global leaders to shape career and target the skills you want to develop and mature
The importance of planning ahead in terms of international partners and maximizing the time abroad
Advice on work-life balance in practicing global ophthalmology locally
Surrounding yourself with a support system
Put yourself in the best position with institutions that accommodate for your specific needs and support you through your career
You can serve underserved populations and do it very well, the opportunities exist!
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