26 | EYEWORLD | APRIL 2022
ASCRS NEWS
Contact
Donaldson:
KDonaldson@med.miami.edu
Garg: gargs@hs.uci.edu
Trattler: wtrattler@gmail.com
Venkateswaran:
nandini.venkat89@gmail.com
how the university may perceive a particular
activity or opportunity with industry that may
arise, I have that activity reviewed by our chair-
man and the compliance committee for their
input.
EyeWorld: How do you balance taking part in
trying new innovations and technologies while
also wearing an academic hat?
Dr. Donaldson: At times, it has been challeng-
ing to integrate new innovations in an academ-
ic center because of the university approval
process and the red tape involved in moving
through the process to participate in a trial or to
introduce a new technology.
EyeWorld: Do you think there is a trend in ac-
ademic institutions moving away from working
with industry?
Dr. Donaldson: I think that it has become much
more difficult over the past 10 years with many
new, stricter rules and regulations. Also, since
the COVID-19 pandemic, many research posi-
tions were dissolved and it has become more
difficult to support research from an adminis-
trative perspective. However, with the proper
research personnel, infrastructure, and financial
backing, industry supported studies and inves-
tigator initiated trials can be successful. Indus-
try relations are also important for supporting
educational opportunities for residents and
fellows and for supporting continuing medical
education opportunities such as meetings and
educational literature.
with KOLs who are interested in working with
young ophthalmologists. Voice to them your
interest in collaborating with industry and you
will come to mind when opportunities arise.
Lastly, be genuine, skilled, and inquisitive when
caring for your patients or when trying new
technologies. Companies and other KOLs will
naturally identify young surgeons who are ded-
icated to their craft and are honest about their
perspectives on new products, and this will help
you gain credibility not only with your patients
but also with your colleagues and industry rep-
resentatives.
EyeWorld: What is a relationship with industry
like while working at an academic institution?
Dr. Donaldson: I have found it to be very
rewarding to work with industry through the
years as it is stimulating and helps us play an
important role in product development and
improvements in patient care. I think that I have
an excellent relationship with industry, however,
I also think that I need to be careful about my
choices and opportunities to remain compliant
with university policies. If I am uncertain about
continued from page 25
Tune in to the YES Connect webinar on this
topic in April. Visit ascrs.org/membership/
young-eye-surgeons/webinars for more
information.
