WIO 2024: More than data

(Image credit: AdobeStock/marcel)

The Women in Ophthalmology Summer Symposium is set to begin on August 22, 2024, in Carlsbad, California. At this annual meeting, ophthalmologists gather for the surgical skills labs and scientific data presentations. However, the ophthalmic focused sessions are just one part of the well-rounded agenda. The WIO meeting provides a chance for ophthalmologists to connect with one another through networking sessions, discussions on practice management skills, and important conversations about challenges of being in a male-dominated field.

A holistic approach

Each morning attendees can begin their day with live well sessions as both a way to energize the day and to highlight the importance of caring for the body and mind even when time is limited, as it so often is in day-to-day life. These sessions include physical wellness, with some options being yoga, cardio, and Zumba. Other sessions focus on the overall wellbeing with sessions on watercolor painting, acupuncture, and self-defense.

Breakout sessions

On August 23, breakout sessions provide an opportunity to explore topics including leaving your legacy, private practice management, working in research or academia, and empowering young ophthalmologists. The following day, breakout sessions are focused on self-care. The options include email management skills, healthy aging, maternity & motherhood in the field, skincare for busy women, and financial wellness.

A family friendly meeting

In addition to the daily schedule and sessions of the meeting, this conference provides a family-friendly space. On site childcare is provided for those whose children are on location with them. Other opportunities include a mommy & me lab, allowing the children of attendees to learn more about what their parent does at work each day. There is also a social and networking reception that welcomes families and provides activities, like lawn games for those attending.