2017 Volume 34 Issue 1 Pages 40-45
The author was presented with The Outstanding Service in Prevention of Blindness Award at the 31st Asia-Pacific Academy of Ophthalmology annual congress, held in Taipei, Taiwan, in May 2016. The 17 award winners were recommended by their respective ophthalmological organizations.
The author in this case was one of the key individuals who contributed to the establishment of the Japanese Society for Low-Vision Research and Rehabilitation in 2000 and served as its president for 10 years. He created an important role for the newly established ‘Medical Fee for Low-vision Care' in 2012 during the second presidency of Hiroshi Takahashi. These achievements were among the primary reasons for the recommendation.
A historical review of low-vision care initiated by ophthalmologists from the Meiji era to 2000 was presented. In addition, the status of the low-vision clinic in the university hospital and the low-vision education in the university after 2000 were discussed. Low-vision care status in other Asian countries and certain overseas collaborations with Japanese ophthalmologists were also highlighted.
