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Apr 10, 2026
Washington, D.C.

ASCRS Refractive Day

Inspired by the U.S. government’s three branches and the spirit of innovation, Refractive Day 2026 explores the evolution of refractive surgery through bold interventions, structured standards, and data-driven insights. Join us in Washington, D.C., for a dynamic program that honors the past and looks boldly toward the future of vision correction.


A Vision for the Next 250 Years

In recognition of our gathering in Washington DC on America’s 250th anniversary, Refractive Day 2026 draws inspiration from two-and-a-half centuries of our federal government and its “balance of powers.” This year’s program draws parallels between the [evolving options within] expanding discipline of refractive surgery to the three branches of government: bold interventions in corneal refractive surgery (Executive), disciplined approach to lenticular refractive surgery (Legislative), and evidence-based interpretation and development of new technology (Judicial). This historically-grounded frame invites us to reflect on the foundations of our specialty while looking forward to its future.


Program Chairs

Daniel Chang, MD

Co-Chair

Kendall Donaldson, MD

Co-Chair

William Wiley, MD

Co-Chair

Fri
Apr 10, 2026

8:00–9:40 a.m.
Session I: Executive Orders in Vision – Phakic and Corneal Refractive

Moderators: William Wiley, MD, and Nandini Venkateswaran, MD

This session reflects the decisiveness of executive action, focused on impactful technologies like phakic IOLs and corneal laser surgery. Topics will cover patient selection, technical execution, and managing outcomes.

9:40–9:50 a.m.
Break
9:50–10:20 a.m.
Session II: The Steinert Lecture

The lecture will reflect on how far we’ve come—and where refractive surgery is headed.

10:20 a.m.–12:00 p.m.
Session III: Legislating Vision – Refractive Cataract Surgery and Standards of Care

Moderators: Daniel H. Chang, MD, and Priya Mathews, MD Representing the legislative process, this session explores how cataract refractive surgery has evolved into a structured, patient-centered approach—requiring clear protocols, thoughtful policy, and surgical judgment.

12:00 – 1:00 p.m.
Lunch with Exhibitors (*Complimentary for subspecialty day attendees)
1:00–2:30 p.m.
Session IV: Judicial Innovations – Interpreting Outcomes and Emerging Technologies

Moderators: Kendall Donaldson, MD, and George Waring IV, MD Like the judiciary interprets the law, surgeons must interpret clinical data, outcomes, and new technologies. This session tackles forward-thinking innovation and data-driven decision-making.

2:30–2:45 p.m.
Break
2:45–3:45 p.m.
Session V: “We The People” – Video-Based Case Review

Moderators: Dagny Zhu, MD, and Marcony Santhiago, MD, PhD In this high-energy closing session, top surgeons present complex cases “on trial” before a panel of expert judges. Expect clinical debate, practical insights, and an engaging wrap-up to the day.

CME Mission Statement

ASCRS’ continuing medical education mission is to improve the competence of ophthalmologists/anterior segment surgeons by offering an avenue for the presentation and discussion of innovative techniques and technologies and fostering an open environment where current practices are presented and questions and improvements in patient care are continually sought.

Accreditation Statement

The American Society of Cataract and Refractive Surgery is accredited by the Accreditation Council for Continuing Medical Education to provide continuing medical education for physicians.

Designation Statement

The American Society of Cataract and Refractive Surgery designates the ASCRS Glaucoma Day for a maximum of 4.0 AMA PRA Category 1 Credits™. Physicians should only claim credit commensurate with the extent of their participation in the activity.

All CME activities approved for AMA PRA Category 1 Credit™ are valid for recognition by the European Accreditation Council for Continuing Medical Education (EACCME). Physicians not licensed in the U.S. who participate in this CME activity are eligible for AMA PRA Category 1 Credit™.

Physicians can claim CME credit up to the maximum listed above for attending the Physicians Program (ASCRS), including scientific films and posters on-demand, scientific papers, courses, symposia and general sessions). Attendees registered as exhibitors, spouses, and guests are not eligible for CME credits. Note: All attendees must have their badges to be eligible to claim credits and evaluate the program.

Target Audience:

This educational activity has been designed for the Anterior Segment Surgeons and Comprehensive Ophthalmologists.

Educational Objectives:

  • Determine how to obtain proper pre-op diagnostics for corneal refractive surgery and phakic IOL surgery.
  • Distinguish between treatment options and to select the appropriate treatment plan for corneal refractive and phakic IOL surgery for different patients.
  • Recognize the historical development of the excimer laser and apply lessons learned to present and future corneal refractive technology.
  • Utilize the history of cataract surgery and IOL development to build a fuller understanding of present patient evaluation and management needs.
  • Discuss the personal and professional lessons learned by expert surgeons with decades of refractive surgery experience.
  • Demonstrate real time problem solving and case management skills in complex and complicated refractive surgical cases.
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