Several Australian ophthalmologists have been listed among the top 100 in their field globally in the 2023 Power List, compiled by The Ophthalmologist magazine, with Adelaide’s Dr Ben LaHood becoming Australia’s youngest ever nominee.
Sydney’s Professor Stephanie Watson and WA ophthalmologist Professor David Mackey also made this year’s list, along with New Zealand’s Professor Helen Danesh-Meyer who was named in the top 20, and Professor Mingguang He who has affiliations with the Centre for Eye Research Australia and The University of Melbourne.
The Power List highlights the excellence and impact of the most influential and inspirational people in ophthalmology globally. Now celebrating its 10-anniversary, nominations are provided by surgeons worldwide with the final list determined by a diverse judging panel.
At 39 years old, LaHood is the youngest Australian ophthalmologist and eye surgeon to be included in the global top 100, and the only South Australian to make the list.
He has been recognised for his surgical services professionally as a consultant ophthalmologist at Adelaide Eye and Laser Centre, ParkView Day Surgery and The Queen Elizabeth Hospital in Adelaide, and Senior Lecturer at University of Adelaide.
LaHood is considered a leader in the subject of cataract and refractive surgery, which has seen him attend multiple conferences across Asia and America to educate his peers. As well as a driving force through his digital and social media presence, newsletters, blogs, two podcasts and regular webinar events.
“I am incredibly humbled to be included in this group of the world’s top 100 ophthalmic minds. I had never assumed I would be at this stage in my career and still not be 40,” he said.
“Selection on this list has been a career goal and is clearly a highlight for me. I could not have got to where I am today, without the many opportunities I have been provided by my professional communityIt is a personal goal of mine to challenge the current system that often restricts ‘advanced technology’ (toric and multifocal intraocular lenses) in cataract treatment for private patients only.
“I believe we should be thinking about the wider benefits and long-term health benefits of these technologies as there are wider reaching communities who would benefit including those with dementia and other disabilities. These technologies have been the focus of my research, PhD and publications over the past five years.”
The Ophthalmologist editor Mr Jon Greenway, said he was thrilled to see several Australians in this year’s Power List.
“We have never had a nominee as young as Ben which is fantastic news for Australian ocular health, and for inspiring the next generation of ophthalmologists,” he said.
More reading
Sole Australian among world’s top 100 female ophthalmologists
Why is residual refractive error acceptable in public hospitals? — Dr Ben LaHood
Fred Hollows Foundation members and Monash professor receive Australia Day Honours
