B. Thomas Hutchinson, MD
B. Thomas Hutchinson, MD, founding chairman of the Academy's EyeCare America program, died on Apr. 10, 2018 at the age of 84.
Dr. Hutchinson is best known for his role in establishing EyeCare America, an Academy public service program that provides eye care through a pool of nearly 6,000 volunteers. EyeCare America is the largest medical public service program in America and has helped more than 1.8 million people.
Dr. Hutchinson was heavily involved in ophthalmic organizations. For the Academy, he served as President in 1993, Chair of the Foundation's Advisory Board, and Senior Secretary of Ophthalmic Practice. Other positions included Associate Clinical Professor at Harvard, founding partner of Ophthalmic Consultants of Boston, Chair of the American Board of Ophthalmology, Director of the Ophthalmic Mutual Insurance Company, President of the New England Ophthalmological Society, President of the Chandler Grant Glaucoma Society, and many others.
Dr. Hutchinson was a visiting professor at multiple universities and medical centers in the United States and internationally. For more than 30 years, he maintained an active role in the teaching of medical students, residents, and fellows in ophthalmology.
"Tom always placed his patients first, was deeply concerned about ethical issues and public service, and retained a passion for his chosen profession of ophthalmology," said David W. Parke II, MD, Academy CEO. "We will all miss him."
The Academy has established the B. Thomas Hutchinson, MD Fund in support of EyeCare America and public service programs of the American Academy of Ophthalmology in his memory. To make a memorial tribute gift, please visit aao.org/foundation/donate and select "The Hutchinson Fund".