The American Glaucoma Society (AGS) is comprised of glaucoma specialists dedicated to sharing clinical and scientific information for the benefit of patients, colleagues, fellows, and residents. But what about concerns that are specific to women in glaucoma?

At the AGS 2023 annual meeting in Austin, Texas, Glaucoma Physician—supported by Thea Pharma Inc.—invited seven prominent women in glaucoma for a panel discussion, focused on themes specific to being a woman practicing glaucoma. We thank the participating physicians: Drs. Marlene Moster, Monique Barbour, Anne Coleman, Christine Larsen, Eydie Miller, Mildred Olivier, and Lorraine Provencher.

Why did we have this panel?

First and foremost, when talented women from any industry gather to share their stories, inspiration occurs! From countless examples, we know that women—in ophthalmology, and specifically glaucoma—lead, and lead exceptionally, in thought and action.

Second, we wanted to not just facilitate a discussion on their career experiences, but also to emphasize the abundance of contributions from women in ophthalmology, and within the glaucoma specialty. By hearing the panelists’ stories, we hoped event attendees (and readers of this panel recap) would find kindred spirits, inspiration, and best practices to better navigate—and lead—this career field. Interestingly, much of the discussion around leadership also focused on the importance of mentors in their lives.

As Dr. Lorraine Provencher said when discussing her path to success, “There are many factors, but if I had to name just one, I think mentorship has been a catalyst at every stage of my career.” Indeed, many of these impressive women reflected warmly on their experiences with professionals who inspired and mentored them.

Women are increasingly entering the field of ophthalmology. In 2000, 29% of ophthalmology residents were women, but that number grew to 41% in 2020.^1,2 However, women are still underrepresented in leadership positions within ophthalmology.³ Our aim is that this dialogue will be one of many that inspires more women to not only enter, but advance, the ophthalmology field and specifically the glaucoma specialty. To this end, we are thankful for the partnership and support by Thea Pharma, Inc. for helping initiate this dialogue.

Douglas A. Parry, PublisherGlaucoma Physician

REFERENCES:

1. Brotherton SE, Simon FA, Etzel SI. US graduate medical education, 2000-2001. JAMA. 2001;286:1056e1060.
2. Xierali IM, Nivet MA, Wilson MR. Current and future status of diversity in ophthalmologist workforce. JAMA Ophthalmol. 2016;134:1016e1023.
3. Camacci ML, Lu A, Lehman EB, et al. Association between sex composition and publication productivity of journal editorial and professional society board members in ophthalmology. JAMA Ophthalmol. 2020;138:451e458.

To watch the discussion in its entirely, scan the QR code to access the video.