ASCRS Annual Meeting Program Chair Thomas Samuelson, MD, is back for his third year in the role and is excited for the education and networking set to occur at the ASCRS Annual Meeting on April 10–13 in Washington, D.C.
EyeWorld: What are you looking forward to at the Annual Meeting this year?
Dr. Samuelson: As always, I most look forward to interacting with my ASCRS colleagues. There is no better forum to exchange innovative ideas related to anterior segment surgery and the practice of ophthalmology. While the scheduled programming is fantastic, it is often the impromptu conversations with colleagues that move the needle. ASCRS fosters more innovative anterior segment surgical discussion than any other forum.
Source: ASCRS
EyeWorld: The Annual Meeting features many exciting events over several days—what are your must-attend features of the meeting, and is there anything new that you’re looking forward to?
Dr. Samuelson: We have condensed the meeting this year. In this era of solitary “clicking and scrolling,” we want to bring attendees together more for the purpose of direct interaction. We have a luxury of riches in terms of abundant quality content and programming. Our members and Clinical Committees produce incredible content, yet we have noticed that the vast breadth of courses, papers, and sessions can spread attendees out too much. This year we cut the content a bit, giving attendees greater opportunity to gather in groups and encourage more interaction. We also want our industry partners to enjoy a crowded showroom floor. The technology that we enjoy in our specialty is second to none. Our colleagues in industry deserve a vibrant showroom with full support of the ASCRS membership—please visit the Exhibit Hall!
EyeWorld: What would you say to someone who hasn’t attended the ASCRS Annual Meeting before?
Dr. Samuelson: Don’t miss any of the Main Stage programing. It is simply fantastic, featuring the Cornelius D. Binkhorst, MD, Lecture, the Charles D. Kelman, MD, Innovator’s Lecture, and the Richard L. Lindstrom, MD, Lecture. These keynotes are exceptional and given by the very best in our field. To be invited to give such a keynote is a once-in-a-career honor, and the speakers pour their heart and soul into preparing their talks. They are not to be missed. Also, schedule some time with friends in the ASCRS Tap Room within the Exhibit Hall. Have a libation and discuss the programing or technology that has caught your eye. Finally, come to the meeting with a good idea of how you want to spend your days. The time goes so fast, there is so much content, and it is easy to miss something that may have been perfect for your professional development. That said, many sessions are recorded for on-demand viewing after the meeting. Finally, Party for a Purpose has become a must-attend event and a true highlight. All are invited!
EyeWorld: What are one or two key educational themes or clinical challenges that the program is designed to address this year?
Dr. Samuelson: As always, ASCRS 2026 will feature the latest technological advances related to our field. In addition, we will provide strategies to combat the surging headwinds in ophthalmology. Attendees will also have the opportunity to bolster advocacy initiatives and help give back through the incredible work of the ASCRS Foundation. As I mentioned, Party for a Purpose on Friday night has become a must-attend event and demonstrates the work hard/play hard mentality of ASCRS and its members. We work hard but also know how to have fun and party with friends and colleagues. Party for a Purpose does exactly that! Don’t miss it.
EyeWorld: Are there any sessions or formats (e.g., symposia, debates, wet labs, case-based learning) that you think attendees will find especially valuable?
Dr. Samuelson: Again, don’t miss the Main Stage content this year. Beyond that, look for the symposia offered by the various ASCRS Clinical Committees in the areas that interest you the most. Whether that be cataract surgery, new technology IOLs, MIGS, corneal surgery, refractive surgery, or anterior segment reconstruction, it’s all there.
EyeWorld: How has attending the ASCRS Annual Meeting consistently helped you professionally and personally?
Dr. Samuelson: Early in my career, I recognized that cataract surgery was a pivotal event in the life of virtually all glaucoma patients. I have told residents and fellows over the years, if you want to improve the quality of life of your glaucoma patients, master phacoemulsification and its nuances. Individuals with glaucoma present many challenges during cataract surgery such as exfoliation, crowded anterior chamber, small pupils, etc. As well, many of the advances in glaucoma surgery in recent years have been synergistic with cataract surgery. ASCRS helped me learn advanced anterior segment skills that have paid dividends for me and my glaucoma patients. I continue to learn at the Annual Meeting, even now 35 years post-fellowship.
I look forward to seeing everyone in Washington, D.C. The run from the Capitol Building to the Lincoln Memorial is one I look forward to every time I am there. See you in April!
