September 24th, 2021
Episode 11: Dr. Cathleen McCabe, MD
A discussion on
“Transcending global boundaries to serve in medical mission work & Experiencing global lessons with family”
Dr. Cathleen McCabe, MD
In this episode of Open Globe Talk, we talk with renowned ophthalmologist, Dr. Cathleen McCabe, MD, who is the Chief medical officer at Eye health America. She specializes in bladeless laser cataract surgery and LASIK at the Eye Associates of Manatee. Dr. McCabe received her medical degree from the Medical College of Wisconsin and did residency training in Ophthalmology from the Bascom Palmer Eye Institute at the University of Miami School of Medicine. Along with being named a Castle Connolly Top Doctor for Ophthalmology, she was also listed in the premier surgeon 300 List as a surgeon innovator for refractive surgery. She has performed over 40,000 cataract surgeries and more than 17,000 LASIK procedures. She has transferred these skills to the international level through her multiple mission trips and we can’t wait to hear from her today!
Key discussion points:
How did Dr. McCabe get involved in Ophthalmology?
Her inclination to incorporate global work in her specialty.
How did she get started with medical mission work?
Mayan Mountains in Western Belize 1 month general medical clinic exposure
St. Vincent and the Grenadines and other medical mission works
What is the length of time for medical mission work and how do you make medical mission work sustainable?
Importance of partnering with local ophthalmologists
How can we incorporate families into medical missions?
Sustainable infrastructure being made in St. Vincent
Find a mission that is safe and comfortable enough
Try to have a guardian/supervisor for younger children
Dr. McCabe’s medical mission work in Kenya
Kenya Relief Organization (specifically Western Kenya)
What sorts of eye issues are encountered in the region?
Large Tumors, Melanoma of the conjunctiva, Eye trauma in kids (stick-poke), cataracts…etc.
How does one select a locality to conduct medical mission trips and what are some organizations to seek involvement through?
Medical ministry international, surgical eye expeditions, ASCRS website (Orbis, Mercy Ships…etc.)
Please contact Dr. McCabe if you are interested in helping with efforts at St. Vincent
Advice for women ophthalmologists interested in medical mission work
Reach out and envision the person of the future you want to be!
Goals for proper mentorship:
Imagine who you want to be
Look for examples of people doing those things you want to do or atleast are on the path of achieving the goals you desire
Reach out to those connections to find out your next steps
Importance of creative outlet to feed your soul!
Episode-based Resources: