Examining the Role of Advocacy in Ophthalmology with Michael X. Repka, MD

Advocacy plays a crucial role in protecting access to high-quality eye care, ensuring that policies and reimbursement structures support patients and providers. In a rapidly shifting landscape, ophthalmologists must engage with lawmakers and regulators to secure funding, influence legislation, and address barriers threatening essential services.

Without strong advocacy, restrictive policies and declining Medicare reimbursements could limit access to critical treatments, leaving patients—especially those with chronic or age-related eye conditions—at risk.

In an interview with HCPLive, Michael X. Repka, MD, a professor of ophthalmology and pediatrics at the Wilmer Eye Institute, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine and 2025 President of the American Academy of Ophthalmology, outlined the critical role of advocacy in shaping ophthalmologic policies and ensuring equitable patient care. He emphasized the need for ongoing legislative and regulatory engagement to secure adequate vision and eye health resources amidst competing healthcare priorities.

Repka recently presented a session entitled “The Importance of Advocacy in Protecting Patients” at the Texas Ophthalmological Association (TOA) Annual Meeting in Houston, Texas.

A central focus of Repka’s advocacy efforts is Medicare payment reform, given the outdated structure of the 2015 MACRA system. He highlighted how declining physician reimbursements—exacerbated by inflation and a lack of congressional action—threaten patient access to care. Immediate reforms, such as linking physician payments to medical inflation, are essential, though long-term legislative overhauls will ultimately be necessary.

Repka also underscored the importance of physician involvement in advocacy, particularly through direct engagement with lawmakers. He stressed that policymakers often lack clinical expertise, making real-world demonstrations and patient testimonials invaluable in influencing legislative decisions.

Furthermore, he noted that while patient awareness of healthcare policy varies, their voices can be instrumental in advocating for systemic improvements, especially when they share firsthand experiences of navigating insurance barriers.

Disclosures: Repka reports disclosures with AbbVie and Alcon.

References

1. Repka MX. The Importance of Advocacy in Protecting Patients. Presented at Texas Ophthalmological Association (TOA) Annual Meeting. Houston, Texas. March 21-22, 2025

2. Michael X. Repka, MD, MBA, begins term as 2025 president of the American Academy of Ophthalmology. American Academy of Ophthalmology. January 3, 2025. Accessed March 24, 2025. https://www.aao.org/newsroom/news-releases/detail/michael-x-repka-md-mba-begins-term-as-president