Patricia Bath

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Patricia Bath

Patricia Bath (November 4, 1942 – May 30, 2019) was an American ophthalmologist, inventor, humanitarian, and academic. She was a pioneer in the field of ophthalmology and is best known for her invention of the Laserphaco Probe for the treatment of cataracts. Bath was the first African American woman doctor to receive a medical patent.

Early Life and Education

Patricia Bath was born in Harlem, New York City. She was inspired by the achievements of her parents and the community around her. Bath attended Charles Evans Hughes High School and excelled in science, which led her to pursue a career in medicine. She earned her bachelor's degree from Hunter College in 1964 and her medical degree from Howard University College of Medicine in 1968.

Career

After completing her medical degree, Bath interned at Harlem Hospital and completed her residency in ophthalmology at New York University. She became the first African American to complete a residency in ophthalmology. Bath was also the first woman to be appointed to the faculty of the Jules Stein Eye Institute at the University of California, Los Angeles (UCLA).

Inventions and Contributions

Patricia Bath is best known for her invention of the Laserphaco Probe, a device that uses laser technology to remove cataracts. This invention was a significant advancement in the field of ophthalmology and has helped restore vision to millions of people worldwide. Bath's work in developing the Laserphaco Probe earned her a patent in 1988, making her the first African American woman doctor to receive a medical patent.

Humanitarian Work

Bath was a strong advocate for preventive ophthalmology and founded the American Institute for the Prevention of Blindness in 1976. The institute's mission is to protect, preserve, and restore the sight of underserved populations. Bath's humanitarian efforts extended globally, and she worked on projects to improve eye care in Africa, Asia, and Latin America.

Awards and Recognition

Throughout her career, Patricia Bath received numerous awards and honors for her contributions to medicine and her humanitarian efforts. She was inducted into the International Women in Medicine Hall of Fame and received the NAACP Image Award for her work in ophthalmology.

Legacy

Patricia Bath's pioneering work in ophthalmology and her dedication to improving eye care for underserved populations have left a lasting impact on the field. Her invention of the Laserphaco Probe continues to benefit patients worldwide, and her advocacy for preventive ophthalmology has inspired many in the medical community.

See Also

• Ophthalmology
• Cataract surgery
• Laser surgery
• African American inventors