Implementing Sustainability: Why Small Changes Matter

At the American Glaucoma Society meeting, Aakriti Garg Shukla, MD, highlighted how small changes in surgical and clinic workflows can meaningfully improve sustainability across ophthalmic care.

By: Aakriti Garg, MD

Glaucoma Physician February 22, 2026

Clinical Report: Implementing Sustainability: Why Small Changes Matter

Overview

Aakriti Garg Shukla, MD, emphasizes the importance of small changes in surgical and clinic workflows to enhance sustainability in ophthalmic care. Key recommendations include reusing surgical products, reducing pharmaceutical waste, and optimizing patient visit frequency.

Background

As the burden of glaucoma increases, so does the demand for clinic visits and surgical procedures. This rising demand presents an opportunity for glaucoma specialists to implement sustainable practices that can significantly reduce environmental impact. Addressing sustainability in healthcare is crucial for maintaining efficient systems that support long-term patient care.

Data Highlights

No specific numerical data or trial data were provided in the source material.

Key Findings

Reusing surgical products can contribute to sustainability in the operating room.
Excessive packaging of surgical devices should be minimized to reduce waste.
Multidosing of pharmaceuticals in the perioperative setting can save significant costs, potentially hundreds of millions per year.
Frequent patient visits contribute to inefficiency; optimizing visit frequency is essential for sustainability.
Consensus guidelines support the use of multidose topical ophthalmic drops to reduce drug waste.

Clinical Implications

Healthcare professionals should consider implementing small changes in their practices to enhance sustainability, such as reusing surgical materials and optimizing pharmaceutical use. These changes not only benefit the environment but also improve operational efficiency and reduce costs.

Conclusion

Sustainability in ophthalmic care is achievable through small, practical changes that can significantly impact both environmental and economic outcomes. Emphasizing these practices is essential for the future of glaucoma care.

PentaVision

Glaucoma Physician