HelpMeSee Expands Simulation-Based Cataract Surgery Training with New Partnerships

HelpMeSee has announced new partnerships with the University of Southern California (USC)/LA General Medical Center in Los Angeles and the University of Illinois Chicago (UIC). These collaborations aim to advance ophthalmic education while addressing the global cataract blindness crisis by establishing two new simulation-based surgical training centers.

Advancing Ophthalmic Education with Cutting-Edge Technology

The training sites will provide residents from USC, UIC, and nearby ophthalmology programs access to the HelpMeSee Simulation-based Eye Surgery Training Program. This program incorporates:

       • High-Fidelity Virtual Reality Technology: Delivers realistic, immersive training experiences.

       • Haptic Feedback: Allows learners to develop precise surgical skills in a risk-free environment.

       • Comprehensive Surgical Training: Covers Manual Small Incision Cataract Surgery (MSICS), Phacoemulsification, and other essential techniques.

Leadership Insights

Bonnie An Henderson, MD, CEO of HelpMeSee, emphasized the importance of these partnerships:

“We are thrilled to collaborate with two exceptional institutions—USC and UIC—in our mission to eradicate cataract blindness worldwide. By integrating HelpMeSee simulation-based training courses into their residency programs, we are empowering the next generation of ophthalmologists to refine their surgical skills safely, effectively, and efficiently. These partnerships will further expand access to high-quality surgical training and ultimately improve patient outcomes.”

Peter MacIntosh, MD, Ophthalmology Residency Program Director at UIC, praised the program:

“The HelpMeSee Simulation-based Training Program represents an incredible advancement in surgical education. Haptic feedback combined with instructor-led guidance ensures that our residents develop the hand-foot-eye coordination and problem-solving abilities required to tackle even the most challenging cataract cases.”

Key Features of the Training Sites

       • Certified Instructors: Fully certified HelpMeSee instructors will provide real-time feedback and personalized guidance to residents and surgeons.

       • On-Demand Training Access: Ensures ophthalmologists in the region can access the program whenever needed, enhancing their surgical skills and confidence.

Addressing the Global Cataract Blindness Crisis

By expanding simulation-based training, HelpMeSee continues to tackle the growing need for skilled cataract surgeons worldwide. These partnerships aim to empower ophthalmology residents and surgeons with advanced tools and techniques, ultimately improving surgical outcomes and patient care globally.

Looking Ahead

With these new training centers, HelpMeSee strengthens its commitment to advancing surgical education and eradicating cataract blindness. These collaborations highlight the potential of simulation-based learning to transform ophthalmic training and improve lives worldwide.