UC doctor receives national recognition

A University of Cincinnati ophthalmology professor is traveling to San Francisco to
receive the Kelman Award for his contributions to cataract surgery.

Dr. Robert Osher, who is also Cincinnati Eye Institute’s medical director emeritus, is in
California to receive the American Academy of Ophthalmology’s (AAO) award.

“I travel the world doing what I love to do,” Osher said. “I like to work around the clock.”

Osher has received awards from around the world for his work from institutes in Australia, Japan, England and Italy – where he won an award for submitting a video of a  cataract surgical procedure. Awards are not always given for breakthroughs, but sometimes for helping doctors to better understand ophthalmology, Osher said.

The medical field of ophthalmology involves the anatomy, function, afflictions and treatment of the eye.

Osher travels more than 100,000 miles per year to give lectures and receive international awards. He has a connection to Cincinnati and gives lectures to UC students annually.

“The Kelman Award recognizes Dr. Osher’s lifetime commitment to the highest quality care for patients,” said Don Holmes, vice president of marketing for the Cincinnati Eye Institute. “He is a true innovator and everyone at Cincinnati Eye Institute is proud of the work he’s done.”

The Cincinnati Eye Institute is the largest private ophthalmology establishment in the country.

Although Osher’s work and teachings are studied internationally, he has also branched out to other fields. To keep a “balanced life” Osher has coached more than 70 sports teams and has written more than a dozen children’s books to raise money for charities.

The AAO ceremony began  Saturday, Oct. 24, and is scheduled to conclude Tuesday, Oct. 27.

Osher also received the  Kelman Award  in 2007.

“I was lucky to find cataract surgery early in my career,” Osher said. “You have to feel passion. I think every day is a wonderful day.”

Osher contends his work ethic stays in line with his mantra of working for patients.

“I don’t work to win awards,” Osher said. “I work because I love what I do. I do it because it makes things better for my patients.”