José-Alain Sahel, MD
Distinguished Professor and Chairman
Department Ophthalmology
The Eye & Ear Foundation
University of Pittsburgh School of Medicine
Director, UPMC Vision Institute
Emeritus Exceptional Class Professor at Sorbonne Université, Paris
In holding the positions of Chairman of the University of Pittsburgh School of Medicine Department of Ophthalmology and Director of the UPMC Vision Institute, I have discovered that one of the most exciting aspects is the opportunity to interact across the entire spectrum of the field. In a typical week, I have the opportunity to work with students, residents, fellows, faculty, the community, and the population at large. Each of these groups' needs defines the purpose of the UPMC Vision Institute and its mission.
As Chairman, driving new developments and striving for excellence in patient care, research, and teaching are my top priorities.
Patient Care
The UPMC Vision Institute is rated among the top ophthalmology programs in the United States in the delivery of patient care. Our most fundamental function is to serve the community through patient care. As we see patients daily by referral, our primary goal is to offer them quality care and provide needed information to the referring doctors as soon as possible so that patients may return to their care.
We continue to expand our subspecialty areas by adding new faculty and positions, leading to a higher quality of overall care.
Research
The Department of Ophthalmology recently ranked eighth in the country for National Institutes of Health funding for departments of ophthalmology and has one of the top basic and clinical research programs in the country. Research focuses on ocular immunology, infectious disease, molecular genetics, molecular biology of retinal disease and glaucoma, and advanced diagnostic imaging technology development.
Teaching
The Department of Ophthalmology has an outstanding residency program, training six residents each year in a three-year program. Graduates have gone on to clinical, research, and combined clinician-scientist careers. The department is at the forefront of continuing medical education and provides both ongoing and specialized educational opportunities. This year, in addition to our 18 residents, we trained retina, cornea, glaucoma, oculoplastic, and pediatric ophthalmology fellows.
Innovative changes will steadily filter through to each area of service. In view of these accomplishments, I can safely say that I am very proud of the Department, and I look forward to keeping you up to date on future progress.