Retina Fellows Business Academy Conference March 2026 Program of Events
8:45 - 9:00 AM (Eastern time)
Virtual Registration
9:00 - 9:15 AM
Introduction
Dr. Mona Camacci & Dr. Maryam Ghiassi
Welcome attendees, provide an overview of the day’s schedule, and set the stage for the sessions ahead.
9:15 - 10:15 AM
Retina Coding for New Retina Clinicians
Faculty: Matthew Baugh, MHA, COT, OCS, OCSR
Get an overview of the fundamentals, including how to confidently choose E/M or Eye visit codes, discover resources for coding retina laser procedures and surgeries, and understand the appropriate use of office modifiers.
10:15 - 10:25 AM
Hearing from Our Corporate Sponsors
10:25 - 11:15 AM
First Year Fellow Breakout
Navigating the Job Market – Insights and Strategies for Success
Faculty: Dr. Maryam Ghiassi
This session delves into the current landscape of job opportunities in retina, highlighting key factors to consider when evaluating potential positions. Attendees will also gain practical tips for negotiating contracts to secure the best terms for their career advancement.
Second Year Fellow Breakout
Buy and Bill
Sponsored by Genentech, Inc.
Faculty: Dr. Laxmi Devisetty
Engage with industry experts and peers in a focused discussion on current trends, challenges, and innovations in retina care. This session will explore the complexities of the Buy and Bill model, addressing its impact on practice management, reimbursement strategies, and patient care.
11:15 – 11:25 AM
Break
11:25 AM – 12:15 PM
Opportunities in Clinical Trials Panel
Moderator: Dr. Mona Camacci
Faculty: Dhaval Desai; Dr. Maryam Ghiassi; Dr. Andrea Gibson; Dr. Charles Wykoff
Explore the essentials of clinical trials, including key operational considerations and strategies for successful management. This session will provide insights into navigating the complexities of trial operations and maximizing their financial impact on your practice.
12:15 - 1:15 PM
Future Career Panel
Moderators: Dr. Mona Camacci & Dr. Maryam Ghiassi
Panelists: Dr. Gordon Crabtree; Dr. Laxmi Devisetty; Dr. Vivian Kim; Dr. Saagar Patel; Dr. Sarwar Zahid
Large group session to learn more about career interests in academic, private practice, and industry.
1:15 - 1:25 PM
Hearing from Our Corporate Sponsors
1:25 – 1:50 PM
Financial Planning for Early-Career Vitreoretinal Surgeons
Faculty: Dr. Bonnie Koo
A guide to managing your finances as an early-career vitreoretinal surgeon, with insights on smart investment strategies and building long-term financial security.
1:50 - 2:35 PM
First Year Fellow Breakout
Working Through Your First Contract – Everything is Negotiable.
Faculty: Dr. Mona Camacci
This session provides a deep dive into understanding your first employment contract, breaking down common terms, clauses, and potential pitfalls. Learn which elements are typically negotiable—from salary and bonuses to non-competes and call schedules—and gain practical strategies to advocate for yourself while maintaining professionalism and confidence.
Second Year Fellow Breakout
How to Make Your Clinic Efficient
Moderator: Dr. Maryam Ghiassi
Panelists: Dr. Constance Mei; Dr. Effie Rahman; Dr. Sarwar Zahid
Discover practical strategies to streamline your clinic and optimize productivity. This session will cover innovative approaches to improving workflow efficiency, including the use of virtual scribes, strategic clinic layouts, equipment utilization, and EMR optimization. Learn how to design systems that enhance both provider performance and patient experience.
2:35 – 3:15 PM
Retina Coding for New Retina Surgeons
Faculty: Matthew Baugh, MHA, COT, OCS, OCSR
Get an overview of the fundamentals of surgical coding.
3:15 – 3:30 PM
Conclusion & Q&A
Summarize the key takeaways from the day, thank the speakers and attendees, and provide information on any next steps or follow-up actions.
