Dr. Patricia Bath (1942–2019) was a pioneering American ophthalmologist, inventor, and laser scientist known for revolutionizing cataract surgery. She was also a passionate advocate for preventing blindness and improving access to eye care, especially in underserved communities.
Major Achievements & Contributions
First Black Woman to Receive a Medical Patent
- In 1988, Dr. Bath patented the Laserphaco Probe, a groundbreaking device that uses laser technology to remove cataracts more precisely and with less pain. This innovation helped restore vision to people who had been blind for decades.
- Her invention has been adopted worldwide in cataract treatment.
Firsts in Medicine
- First Black woman doctor to receive a medical patent.
- First Black woman to complete an ophthalmology residency at New York University.
- First woman to chair an ophthalmology residency program in the U.S. at UCLA.
Fighting Preventable Blindness
- She co-founded the American Institute for the Prevention of Blindness, which promotes “the right to sight” for everyone, regardless of income.
- She worked on programs to provide free eye care to underserved communities.
Dr. Bath’s legacy continues to impact millions of lives by improving cataract surgery and advocating for equal healthcare access
