Vision Beyond Borders: Dr Suit May Ho’s Impact on Global Eyecare

During World Optometry Week, our focus turns to the extraordinary individuals leading the charge in eye health across the globe. Dr Suit May Ho, a University of Melbourne alumnus, exemplifies this spirit through her groundbreaking work in global eyecare. Her work earned her the Department of Optometry and Vision Sciences’ Outstanding Alumnus Award for 2023 and the recent prestigious Knight Officer medal of the Royal Order of Monisaraphon presented by the Ministry of Education, Youth and Sports on behalf of the Royal Cambodian Government.

Delve into Dr Ho's journey and perspectives on optometrists' contribution to global eyecare and international optometry in the following interview.

What inspired you to dedicate your career to improving global eyecare, and how did your educational journey shape this path?

"My path into optometry was driven by a desire to make a real difference in people’s ability to see," Dr Suit May Ho shares. "Working with disadvantaged communities became a focal point of my career, an interest reinforced during my time at the Victorian College of Optometry."

She reflects on the impact of influential figures in her early career, "The pivotal insights from Professors Hugh Taylor and Brien Holden about the global challenges of visual impairment, particularly uncorrected refractive error, propelled me toward my mission. It was a revelation that set the course of my professional life."

Dr Ho elaborates on her academic experiences, "Pursuing my doctoral degree at the University of Melbourne wasn't just about acquiring knowledge; it was about preparing me for a significant role in global eye care. Little did I know, it would eventually lead me to teach and guide future generations in countries far from mine."

Can you share a story from your life that sparked your interest in global eye health and your career path?

Dr Ho shares “My initial journey into global eye health began with a volunteer project in Vanuatu, where I encountered teachers and nurses forced into early retirement because they could not see at near to do their jobs. Inspired by Fred Hollows' work in training local healthcare providers, Genevieve Napper and I, with materials from the International Centre for Eyecare Education (now Brien Holden Foundation), trained local eye nurse trainees and a church volunteer to prescribe readymade glasses. This initiative led to the creation of a self-sustaining eyecare clinic in the Presbyterian Church in Port Vila, bolstered by donations from Australian optometrists and expanded by training additional refractionists. This experience had underscored the transformative impact of accessible eyecare to me.”

How do you define success in your work? Could you recount a specific instance where you felt your work significantly impacted an individual or community?

"For me, success is all about sustainability," Dr Ho asserts. "Seeing the long-term impact of our training programs in Vietnam from 16 years ago, where local professionals continue to serve their communities, is a clear indicator of our efforts' success."

She adds, "These moments affirm the value of our work and motivate us to push further, ensuring our contributions have a lasting effect."

In moments of doubt or challenge, what motivates you to continue your work in advancing global eyecare?

"In challenging moments, it's the people," Dr Ho emphasizes, “especially those dedicated to community service and education in eyecare, like Minh Anh, a University of Melbourne alumnus leading Hanoi Medical University's optometry course—who inspire me to press on. Their commitment and the tangible impact of our work, evidenced by the graduation of around 450 optometrists from the two optometry schools we helped establish in Vietnam, motivate me to continue my path in global eyecare.”

What project or initiative in global eyecare has been the most challenging and rewarding for you throughout your career?

Reflecting on her vast experience, Dr Ho identifies the development of optometry in Vietnam as both a significant challenge and a rewarding achievement. "Launching this field in a country without any degree-qualified optometrists required introducing optometry beyond refraction, advocating for educational recognition, developing curricula with universities, and integrating optometry into the public health system. Supported by a dedicated team, we succeeded in establishing optometry as a profession, significantly increasing the number of professionals serving Vietnam's eye care needs.”

In terms of global eyecare, where do you hope to see the most progress in the next decade?

Dr Ho expresses her vision for the future, “Over the next decade, I hope to see major advancements in addressing uncorrected refractive errors, a leading cause of visual impairment. I envision the development of affordable, accurate AI-powered portable autorefractors usable by minimally trained personnel. This technology, alongside a supply of affordable, high-quality glasses, would enhance access to refractive services within integrated health systems. It would allow basic eye care in communities and referral of more complex cases to optometrists. This would expand access to eyewear for underserved, rural, and remote populations.”

What advice would you give to young professionals inspired by your career path who wish to make a difference in global eyecare?

"For those aspiring to impact global eyecare, gaining knowledge in public health and international development is crucial." Dr Ho advises. “Networking within the eyecare community is essential—start by volunteering, as I did at the International Centre for Eyecare Education, which led to my first job in the field. This path took me from volunteering to a significant position at the Fred Hollows Foundation, focusing on comprehensive eyecare initiatives. Seize every chance to engage in this rewarding work, whether volunteer or professional.”

"Your journey will be one of constant learning and meaningful connections. It's a fulfilling path that can lead to significant contributions to eyecare globally."

With a career spanning over three decades, Dr Ho has been a pivotal figure in optometry and public health. Currently serving as the Optometry and Primary Care Adviser at The Fred Hollows Foundation, her efforts have been instrumental in enhancing cataract treatment outcomes and tackling refractive errors worldwide. Dr Ho's commitment to eye health extends beyond her program work; she actively participates in various global committees and was honoured as an "Eye Health Hero" in 2018 in recognition of her efforts to train eye health workers across multiple countries.

Dr Suit May Ho's journey, marked by deep commitment and compassion, highlights her impactful work in optometry. It offers a motivational framework for future optometrists aiming to make a difference globally, highlighting how dedication can lead to transformative outcomes for communities worldwide.