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Global cooperation, communication key to ophthalmology
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NAPLES, Italy — Ophthalmology thrives in the era of globalization, cooperation, exchange and reciprocal learning, according to H. Dunbar Hoskins, MD.
"Information travels almost instantaneously, and ophthalmology all round the world is up to speed. At its best level, it is equivalent throughout the continents," he said in an interview here at the joint meeting of Ocular Surgery News and the Italian Society of Ophthalmology, where he received the 2008 SOI Honorary Award in Ophthalmology.
The United States may have been in the forefront 25 years ago, but "today there are new things evolving in Europe and Asia as well as in the U.S., and we all learn from each other," he said.
This global cooperation is critical to the progress of science and will generate the best possible care for patients, Dr. Hoskins said.
The American Academy of Ophthalmology is increasingly involving people from other countries in the Academy's committees, activities and educational programs. In turn, the AAO is invited to participate in joint meetings in Europe and Asia.
In addition, the Internet is an invaluable channel for instantaneous communication beyond borders.
To fully exploit the potentials of the Internet, the AAO has created the Ophthalmic News and Education (ONE) network.
"Our network is open to all the news that the scientific community, the industry and the media want to share, without too much filter. It will publish journal abstracts, give full text access to the major journals of ophthalmology, and provide videos of all surgical techniques and structured educational programs with self-assessment tests," Dr. Hoskins explained.
The ONE is currently available to U.S. users, but will be extended to all countries in 2009 through national and international societies. It will also be available for free in developing countries.
It will be "a place where the world of ophthalmology can collaborate to provide the best possible and most updated information. It is beginning now, but in 10 years time it will be an incredible resource, where all of us will be able to find instantaneously whatever is needed to keep our practice updated," Dr. Hoskins said.