In the latest episode of The History of Eyecare podcast, host Dr. Morgan Micheletti features Dr. Arthur Cummings, a renowned Dublin-based eye surgeon with a significant impact on refractive surgery.

Beginning with his humble origins in South Africa, Dr. Cummings narrates how an unexpected day in an eye clinic shifted his career path from urology to ophthalmology. This marked the onset of his persistent drive for innovation in cataract and refractive surgery, leading to the development of advanced methodologies and instruments shaping the field today.

Dr. Cummings provides an engaging recount of his early career, from performing Radial Keratotomy (RK) procedures to transitioning to LASIK in the mid-90s. He vividly describes how his unconventional approach to LASIK, performing surgery on both eyes simultaneously, instigated robust debate among international peers. This period taught him the vital importance of thorough patient communication during complex procedures like LASIK.

Sharing experiences from his tenure with the Refractive Surgery Alliance, Dr. Cummings underscores the organization’s role in promoting global collaboration and knowledge sharing among surgeons to improve refractive surgery outcomes. He highlights alarming global vision impairment statistics and advocates fervently for the life-enhancing potential of refractive surgery beyond mere vision correction.

Discussing his vision for The World College of Refractive Surgery, Dr. Cummings outlines his ambitious plan to set global standards and enhance patient care. This initiative involves raising capital to extend quality eye care services to underprivileged communities, creating a more sustainable future by reducing dependence on contacts and glasses.

Lastly, Dr. Cummings shares his unique experience serving on the board of directors of Alcon as the only ophthalmologist board member. This opportunity arose through an interesting process initiated on LinkedIn, revealing the importance of professional networking platforms in career development. As part of the board, he emphasizes the necessity of sustainable and implementable ideas to address unmet needs, ensuring the continued success and profitability of innovations.

This conversation provides a captivating glimpse into Dr. Cummings’ life and work, reflecting his unwavering dedication to advancing eye care, championing innovation, and promoting the transformative potential of refractive surgery.

Key Topics:
1:32 – Introducing today’s guest, Dr. Arthur Cummings.
2:45 – Dr. Arthur Cummings medical journey.
7:19 – The shift from lasik to PRK.
9:34 – The change in flap creations.
12:57 – The role of the Refractive Surgery Alliance.
26:39 – Bridging the gap with the RSA.
29:18 – The World College of Refractive Surgery
38:11 – How refractive surgery could help eliminate waste.
39:05 – The AECOS organization and their role.
42:54 – His role on the Board of Directors for Alcon.