Patricia Bath
Pioneering Ophthalmologist and Innovator
It's Black History Month, a time to celebrate and honor the contributions of our people to this country and the world. One of these remarkable individuals is Dr. Patricia Bath, a pioneering ophthalmologist and innovator who made significant advancements in the field of ophthalmology and broke barriers for women and people of color.
Dr. Bath was born in Harlem, New York in 1942 and showed an early aptitude for science and medicine. She earned her Bachelor's degree from Hunter College and her medical degree from Howard University College of Medicine, where she was the only female in her class. She went on to complete her residency in ophthalmology at New York University, becoming the first African American woman to complete a residency in this field.
She also became the first woman member of the Jules Stein Eye Institut, first woman to lead a post-graduate training program in ophthalmology (subspecialty within medicine that deals with the diagnosis and treatment of eye disorders), and first woman elected to the honorary staff of the UCLA Medical Center. She was also the first African-American woman to serve on staff as a surgeon at the UCLA Medical Center. Bath was the first African-American woman doctor to receive a patent for a medical purpose. A holder of five patents,she also founded the non-profit American Institute for the Prevention of Blindness in Washington, D.C.
(Credit...Herbert S. Sonnenfeld)
Throughout her career, Dr. Bath made numerous groundbreaking contributions to the field of ophthalmology. She developed the Laserphaco Probe, a device used in cataract surgery that utilizes laser technology to remove the cloudy lens and replace it with a clear one. This innovative technique revolutionized the field of ophthalmology and helped improve vision for countless patients.
In addition to her technical innovations, Dr. Bath was also a passionate advocate for increasing access to eye care for underserved communities. She established the American Institute for the Prevention of Blindness and was a strong voice for diversity and inclusion in the medical field. She was the first African American female doctor to receive a medical patent and was inducted into the National Women's Hall of Fame in 2018.
(Dr. Bath at a speaking event)
Dr. Bath's achievements have not only helped to improve the lives of countless patients, but they have also inspired other women and people of color to pursue careers in medicine and science. Her unwavering dedication to her work and her commitment to making a difference in the world serve as an inspiration to us all.
Dr. Patricia Bath was a pioneering ophthalmologist who made significant contributions to the field of ophthalmology and worked tirelessly to improve access to eye care for underserved communities. She is a true trailblazer and deserves to be celebrated and remembered this Black History Month and beyond.
Sources: https://www.nytimes.com/2019/06/04/obituaries/dr-patricia-bath-dead.html
https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Patricia_Bath