Abstract
Importance There is a lack of peer-reviewed literature on leadership development programs (LDP)
in ophthalmology. Research into LDP demographics, outcomes, and methodology is needed.
Objective The aim of the study is to evaluate the extent to which LDPs targeting ophthalmologists
meet the needs of emerging leaders.
Design The design type of the study is cross-sectional analysis.
Setting This study involves international setting.
Participants The participants involved were ophthalmologists at any career level.
Methods Routine internet search was used to identify LDPs targeting ophthalmologists. LDPs
identified were categorized by the outcome data available into four levels based on
prior literature. Participants were assessed using previously validated software for
gender (Gender-API, 2020) and race or ethnicity (NamSor, 2020)
Results Nine programs were identified which were classified into LDP generations. The first
LDP in ophthalmology was the American Academy of Ophthalmology (AAO) LDP, which served
as the nidus for the formation of four multinational LDPs, together forming the Global
LDP. These LDPs were similar in size and scope; program size ranging from nine to
30 participants; a length of 1 to 2 years; with similar curricular offerings; with
funding primarily derived from cost-sharing with a nominating society. The second
generation of ophthalmology LDPs in the United States has targeted female scientists
or faculty (Women's LDP by ARVO) and academic ophthalmology leaders (Academic LDP
by Association of University Professors of Ophthalmology).
The AAO's LDP appears increasingly diverse with approximately 13% women at inception,
gradually increasing from 40 to 65% women in the last 5 years (n = 389). There has also been a notable increase in ethnic diversity.
Conclusion and Relevance AAO LDP is the preeminent leadership training program for ophthalmologists, and it
has influenced the creation of a new generation of LDP offerings. There remains a
paucity of LDP evaluation metrics and reported outcomes. Newer iterations are successfully
targeting academic leadership and attempting to address known disparities in gender
and race or ethnicity. Further expansion of LDPs and related research can ensure equity
and diversity in the pipeline.
Keywords
leadership development program - ophthalmology - leadership
