1 week Ago By American Academy of Ophthalmology (AAO)
Michael X. Repka, MD, MBA, this week begins his one-year term as the 129th president of the American Academy of Ophthalmology . Dr.
Repka is a practicing pediatric ophthalmologist at the Wilmer Eye Institute of John Hopkins University in Baltimore. He also serves as the Academy’s medical director for Governmental Affairs, advocating for patient safety on both federal and state levels for more than a decade. He was elected to leadership by the Academy’s community of 32,000 ophthalmologists.
Dr. Repka says his top priority for the upcoming year is Medicare payment reform. “In a health care system that is governed by lawmakers prioritizing cost-effective measures over patient safety, the voices of physicians are more necessary than ever,” Dr.
Repka said. “Policymakers are not always well-versed on clinical topics, so it is our job as physicians to educate and to represent our subspeciality and patients. Sustained advocacy is the only way we can ensure quality, timely care for our patients.
” Dr. Repka’s previous leadership positions with the Academy include secretary for Federal Affairs and member of the Health Policy Committee. Outside the Academy, he has served as president of the Maryland Society of Eye Physicians and the American Association for Pediatric Ophthalmology and Strabismus.
He received his medical degree from Thomas Jefferson University. About the American Academy of Ophthalmology The American Academy of Ophthalmology is the world’s largest association of eye physicians and surgeons. A global community of 32,000 medical doctors, we protect sight and empower lives by setting the standards for ophthalmic education and advocating for our patients and the public.
We innovate and support research to advance our profession and to ensure the delivery of the highest-quality eye care. Our EyeSmart® program provides the public with the most trusted information about eye health. For more information, visit aao.
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