Over the past 15 years, advances in glaucoma care have changed the ways physicians learn, teach, and lead within their institutions. The 2026 American Glaucoma Society meeting in Palm Springs, California, offered not only a venue for scientific exchange but also a chance to hear directly from those shaping the future of the field. In one session, a panel of women in glaucoma shared personal experiences that have guided their approaches to surgical innovation, patient care, and mentorship, offering lessons that can inspire colleagues at every stage of their careers.
Glaucoma Physician, with the support of Théa Pharma, hosted this roundtable, moderated by Marlene Moster, MD, and featuring Aakriti G. Shukla, MD, MSc; Rebecca F. Neustein, MD; Wendy Liu, MD, PhD; and Ariana Levin, MD. The panelists discussed how surgeons adopt new techniques and emphasized mentorship, peer learning, and continuous improvement based on postoperative outcomes. They also highlighted the importance of clear and effective patient communication to support adherence and shared decision-making.
Across the discussion, several themes emerged: the role of continuous, self-directed learning in a field shaped by rapid innovation and the value of strong patient relationships that inform individualized treatment. As Dr. Shukla observed, “Building trust is one of the most important and challenging aspects of patient care…. In glaucoma, things don’t always go as planned. Being there for a patient [helps] them through this period of anxiety. If you’re there for them to guide them through the tough times, they’ll be able to trust you.” The panelists also addressed leadership and mentorship, underscoring the importance of intentional career development and collaborative support networks.
We are deeply grateful to our panelists for generously sharing their insights and experiences. We also extend our sincere thanks to Théa Pharma for its partnership and commitment to fostering dialogue that supports the advancement of women in ophthalmology and glaucoma. We hope this discussion will inspire continued progress for future generations of glaucoma specialists.
Jim Gallagher, senior managing editor
Glaucoma Physician