Industry News
Eye Surgery Showcase Brings Innovation to Australian Parliament House
In a unique fusion of science and policy, the Australian Society of Ophthalmologists (ASO) hosted its inaugural Eye Surgery Showcase at the Australian Parliament House (APH) last week. The event, part of National Science Week, brought together top ophthalmologists and leading medical technology innovators to demonstrate the latest advancements in eye surgery to the nation's policymakers.
The showcase, opened and closed by Hon Dr David Gillespie MP and Ms Meryl Swanson MP, Co-Chairs of the Parliamentary Friends of Eye Health Group, provided a hands-on experience for politicians and healthcare policymakers. Participants were allowed to simulate complex eye surgeries under the guidance of Canberra-based ophthalmologists using state-of-the-art technology from global leaders such as Alcon, Device Technologies, Glaukos, Johnson & Johnson, and ZEISS.
Kerry Gallagher AM, CEO of ASO, emphasized the significance of this event in highlighting the critical role of ophthalmologists in combating eye health diseases that threaten the sight and quality of life for many Australians. "Close to one in two Australians suffer from long-term eye conditions, yet 90% of all blindness cases in Australia are preventable," Gallagher said, underscoring the urgency for improved public awareness and access to eye care.
ASO President Dr Peter Sumich expressed concern over the rising rates of unaddressed and treatable blindness in Australia, noting the alarming statistics despite the country's world-class medical technology and expertise. "This showcase is about educating our elected representatives on the stakes involved and the importance of supporting access to these life-changing technologies," said Dr Sumich.
The event also aimed to foster a deeper understanding among policymakers about the prevalence of eye diseases and the critical role of surgical intervention in preventing blindness. The ASO hopes to collaborate with the government to enhance the delivery of ophthalmology services, particularly in rural, remote, and Indigenous communities, where access to such services is often limited.
Most ophthalmology services in Australia are provided through the private health sector. The ASO’s initiative addresses this imbalance by advocating for better public sector access to these essential services.
The Eye Surgery Showcase is recognized as an Inspiring Australia event under National Science Week 2024, an initiative of the Australian Government. The ASO's efforts reflect a broader commitment to advancing eye health and ensuring that all Australians can benefit from the latest surgical innovations.
