Leading Ophthalmic Organizations Partner to Advance Eye Care With the Next Generation of Business Innovation Conferences: Coming in 2020

 

 

SAN FRANCISCO — October 8, 2019 — Two of the world’s largest ophthalmic organizations today announced a new collaboration to help accelerate the growth and success of companies focused on new therapies for eye disorders. The American Academy of Ophthalmology and the American Society of Cataract and Refractive Surgery (ASCRS) are developing a series of business forums that bring together industry, ophthalmologists, and investors. The goal is to tap the scientific talent and entrepreneurial spirit of these two storied institutions to nurture a variety of businesses, from startups to blue-chip companies.

 

The innovation forums will be held during the annual meetings of the Academy and ASCRS, with the first set for May 14, 2020 at the ASCRS annual meeting in Boston, followed on Nov. 12 before AAO 2020 in Las Vegas. The meetings are designed for all innovation stakeholders, including scientists, entrepreneurs, executives, investors, and ophthalmologists.

 

“This collaboration is a unique opportunity to benefit patients around the world,” said David W. Parke II, MD, CEO, American Academy of Ophthalmology. “This is the first time that two medical societies have come together to develop a joint business innovation meeting that has great value to a broad range of attendees. We are delighted to combine our resources in this new effort.”

 

“It’s clearly time for both the Academy and ASCRS to develop a next-generation ophthalmic business forum, given the power of these two societies to bring together the top minds in ophthalmology and business,” said Steve Speares, executive director, ASCRS. “It’s an exciting opportunity to get better treatments to patients, quicker.”

 

Details on the partnership and events will be available in late 2019.