Editorial: Private equity investment and ophthalmology: why the discussion matters

Challenges and controversies in ophthalmology in 2023

“…Finally, in a sequel of sorts to our last joint issue [9], we revisit the private equity (PE) movement in ophthalmology. According to Bain & Co., PE closed on nearly $90 billion worth of healthcare deals in 2022, many of which were in ophthalmology [10,11].…”

Blurred Vision—A Call to Action to Improve Public Education on Eye Clinician Differences

“…For example, ophthalmology has experienced a surge of acquisition of previously physician-owned practices by venture capital-backed private equity firms. 4 The dermatology specialty has gone through a similar landscape change, and private equity-owned dermatology practices are shifting to greater utilization of nurse practitioners in lieu of physicians, likely due to higher potential margins for venture capital owners. 5,6 Faced with these new pressures and with the everpresent but increasingly divisive policy debate about the role of optometrists vs ophthalmologists in eye care, it is critical for ophthalmologists nationwide to make a concerted effort to control the narrative by leveraging online information for our field's benefit.…”

“…Boundaries need to be maintained, however, lest they be twisted and corrupted for financial benefit at the expense of patient safety. For example, ophthalmology has experienced a surge of acquisition of previously physician-owned practices by venture capital–backed private equity firms . The dermatology specialty has gone through a similar landscape change, and private equity–owned dermatology practices are shifting to greater utilization of nurse practitioners in lieu of physicians, likely due to higher potential margins for venture capital owners …”