Prominent ophthalmologist and innovative research and laser scientist, Dr. Patricia Bath is the first African American woman physician to receive a patent for a medical invention.
From 1970 to 1973, she trained at New York University School of Medicine as the first African American resident in ophthalmology.
Dr. Bath developed the laser 'phaco' probe, a medical device that improves on the use of lasers to remove cataracts, and "for ablating and removing cataract lenses". She first had the idea for this type of device in 1981, but did not apply for a patent until several years later. The device was completed in 1986 after conducting research on lasers in Berlin, Germany and patented in 1988, making her the first African-American woman to receive a patent for a medical purpose. The device quickly and nearly painlessly dissolves the cataract with a laser, irrigates, cleans the eye and permits the easy insertion of a new lens into the eye. The device have successfully restored vision to people who had been unable to see for decades.
Three of Dr. Bath's five patents relate to the Laserphaco Probe. In 2000, she was granted a patent for a method using pulsed ultrasound to remove cataracts, and in 2003 a patent for combining laser and ultrasound to remove cataracts.
Sources: Blackfacts.com; Blackpast.org; Wikipedia.org
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CAAA will hold a public commission hybrid meeting Friday, March 22nd - 1pm to 4pm atKitsap Regional Library Heninger Meeting Room - 1301 Sylvan Way, Bremerton, WA
This will be both in-person and virtual. To attend virtually, please register in advance for this webinar: https://us06web.zoom.us/webinar/register/WN_KmJrvg7JTl6BFVnSkvz5Pg After registering, you will receive a confirmation email containing information about joining the webinar.
 High school students - it is not too early to begin looking for a summer gig and the Port of Seattle is giving advance notice of a paid, part-time learning opportunity!
Applicants should be a high school student at least 16 years old, a citizen or individual authorized to work in the U.S.
Mark your calendars! The application opens May 1st. In the meantime, follow the QR code and explore the program.
  
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