Vance Thompson, MD, Becomes New President of ASCRS

The American Society of Cataract and Refractive Surgery (ASCRS) is poised to welcome Vance Thompson, MD, as its new president during the organization’s 2024 annual meeting, which begins this Friday at the Boston Convention and Exhibition Center in Boston.

This occasion not only marks the 50th anniversary of the ASCRS but also signifies a leadership transition with Thompson stepping up from his current role as vice president/president-elect.

Thompson, a renowned expert in laser vision correction and advanced cataract surgery, directs refractive surgery at Vance Thompson Vision, which boasts a network of locations across several states including South Dakota, Minnesota, Montana, Nebraska, and North Dakota.

Throughout his career, Thompson has contributed significantly to the ASCRS, engaging as a presenter, webinar host, and adviser on the ASCRS Refractive Surgery Clinical Committee. His dedication and service to the organization have been well acknowledged.

With a one-year term ahead, Thompson is determined to enhance the organization’s peer-to-peer educational initiatives. These programs are pivotal in equipping doctors with the knowledge and skills needed to deliver superior patient care globally. "I am super excited to be a part of this look back to honor those who came before us who helped lay the foundation of our great profession," Thompson expressed to a Sioux Falls Business report. He further emphasized his enthusiasm for guiding current and future ophthalmologists through the evolving challenges and opportunities within the field.

An alumnus of the University of South Dakota and its medical school, Thompson completed his ophthalmology residency at the University of Missouri/Columbia. His journey in ophthalmology was further enriched by a fellowship at Hunkeler Eye Centers Fellowship in Kansas City, Kansas.

As Thompson assumes the presidency of ASCRS, he brings a vision for the future that respects the legacy of the past while forging new paths in ophthalmology. His leadership is expected to steer the organization through its landmark 50th year, fostering growth and innovation in the service of eye care professionals and patients around the world.