September 24, 2022
Episode 31: Oluwatosin U Smith, MD
A discussion on
“Glaucoma & Global Ophthalmology: The Cure Glaucoma Foundation”
A plight to seek equitable care through multi-centric focus on a systemic cure: Research + Service + Training
Video
Audio
Dr. Oluwatosin U Smith, MD
In this exciting episode, we feature the acclaimed glaucoma specialist and global ophthalmologist, Dr. Oluwatosin U Smith, MD. Dr. Smith obtained her medical degree from the University of Ibadan in Nigeria graduating with the Andrew Blair Aitken’s Prize in Surgery. She completed her ophthalmology residency at Howard University where she was recognized as the most outstanding resident in the batch class of 2002. She then went on to specialize in glaucoma, obtaining her subspecialty training at Wills Eye Hospital. Presently, Dr. Smith works as a glaucoma specialist at the Glaucoma Associates of Texas in Dallas, serves on the board of ‘Cure Glaucoma Foundation’, and is an assistant professor of Ophthalmology at the University of Texas Southwestern.
In our discussion today, we learn how Dr. Smith got started with the ‘Cure Glaucoma Foundation’ and how her work during these past years have led to its innovation. We also discuss the systemic ways we can address bringing quality glaucoma care to underserved communities both locally and globally. This episode is not the one to miss as we dig deep in exploring how glaucoma is tackled in the global ophthalmology front!
Key discussion points:
Ophthalmology journey
General surgery residency in the UK —> Howard University for Ophthalmology —> Wills Eye for glaucoma
The spark for Ophthalmology: growing up in Nigeria
Childhood glaucoma
Very different from adult glaucoma
Building relationship for the rest of the child’s life
Moving to the University of Mississippi
The experience of starting up its glaucoma division
Angle of research in global ophthalmology to address glaucoma
Bringing viable sustainable ways of glaucoma treatment to developing countries and studying their economic efficiency
How do you convince industry to focus on investing in developing countries?
Oftentimes, companies may want to help but don’t know how.
The benefit of coming from the African continent is that there is personal experience of the infrastructure and the needs of the community to ensure effective delivery of care.
The concern is also often about training of devices despite adequate access to them.
The role of Cure Glaucoma Foundation
The Cure Glaucoma Foundation
How it got started?
Research scope
Free care to underserved communities
International fellowship
EyeCare America by the American Association of Ophthalmology
AGS CARES
The unique benefit of tele-mentoring and teaching that set the Cure Glaucoma Foundation for success during COVID pandemic
What’s the next site(s) for training by the Cure Glaucoma Foundation?
Classes
MIGS conference
Incredible Women in Global Ophthalmology
Start small in global ophthalmology
Do a Zoom lecture!
It is possible to get involved and thrive!
Episode-based Resources: