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  • Asia-Pacific Meeting Includes Practical Support, Advice for Young Ophthalmologists

    Hundreds of ophthalmologists will gather in Singapore March 1 to 5 to explore the latest cutting-edge technologies and share treatment insights at APAO 2017, the region’s biggest meeting in the field.

    “For the young physician, there are some truly unique clinical considerations and learning opportunities in the Asia-Pacific region,” said Royce Chen, MD, co-chair of the meeting’s YO symposium. “The APAO Congress provides a rare opportunity to collaborate with your international colleagues.” Dr. Chen is also a member of the Academy’s YO international subcommittee.

    Hosted by the Asia-Pacific Academy of Ophthalmology, the annual congress draws ophthalmologists from around the world. This year’s theme is “Discovery, Innovation and Practice,” and if you have the opportunity to attend, the 32nd APAO congress won’t disappoint.

    Special Events for YOs

    On Friday, March 3, Dr. Chen will join Seng-kheong (“SK”) Fang to co-chair the APAO Young Ophthalmologists Symposium from 11 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. The event will cover a variety of topics, including:

    • How to be a clinician scientist;
    • Getting published in peer-reviewed journals;
    • Mastering your surgical skills;
    • Postgraduate ophthalmology training;
    • Mentorship;
    • The pros and cons of group practice versus individual practice.

    YOs also have a futsal and beer night on Wednesday, March 1, in Singapore’s historic Tiong Baru neighborhood, and a social event on Saturday, March 4, at The Armoury.

    The Details

    When and where. APAO 2017 takes place March 1 to 5 in the city-state of Singapore at the Suntec Singapore Convention and Exhibition Centre. The meeting is held in conjunction with the 32nd Malaysia-Singapore Joint Ophthalmic Congress. The Academy Medicine of Singapore and the Singapore Society of Ophthalmology will co-host the meeting, which the International Council of Ophthalmology co-sponsors.

    How to register. All registration happens via the APAO ID system. Online registration ended on Feb. 12, so all attendees must register onsite and pay the full price of $650. Trainees can get a partial refund of up to $325 if you submit a trainee declaration form to declaration@apaophth.org after APAO 2017 has ended.

    Travel tip. All visitors to Singapore must have the following to meet entry requirements:

    • Valid travel document with a minimum of six-months validity;
    • Onward/return ticket;
    • Entry facilities to next destination;
    • Sufficient funds to stay in Singapore and
    • Visa for Singapore (if applicable)

    Singapore also restricts import of some substances. View the government’s guidelines for bringing personal medications with you. For more details about travel considerations and the scientific and social programs, visit the official APAO Congress website.

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    About the author: Mike Mott is a former assistant editor for EyeNet Magazine and contributing writer for YO Info.