Introduction

 

 

Dr. Patricia Bath, © Inventor of the Week

Dr. Patricia Era Bath transcended racial and gender barriers in order to achieve many scientific and technological accomplishments in the field of ophthalmology. Her many accomplishments include inventing the Laserphaco Probe which improves cataract and keratoprosthesis surgery, becoming the first woman to chair the Ophthalmology Residency Training Program, and cofounder and first president of the American Institute to Prevent Blindness. From a young age, she worked tirelessly in order to pursue her dreams and change the lives of many individuals through her achievements in the field of ophthalmology. Dr. Bath’s passion for restoring sight to the blind is summed by her humble words, “The ability to restore vision is the ultimate reward.” (National Library of Medicine)