Dr. Sohail J. Hasan Represents Retina Consultants of America and Illinois Retina Associates in Washington, D.C. at National Advocacy Meetings 2026
Dr. Sohail J. Hasan Represents Retina Consultants of America and Illinois Retina Associates in Washington, D.C. at National Advocacy Meetings
Sohail J. Hasan, MD, PhD, FACS, FASRS, FRCSC recently traveled to Washington, D.C. representing Retina Consultants of America (RCA) and Illinois Retina Associates at two major national advocacy meetings focused on federal policy, and patient access to high-quality eye care:
- Ophthalmic Leadership Advocacy Group (OLAG) 2026 Annual Meeting
- American Academy of Ophthalmology’s Federal Secretariat for Federal Affairs Committee Meeting
These meetings brought together ophthalmic leaders from across the country, along with federal health policy experts and congressional stakeholders, to address the evolving legislative and regulatory landscape impacting ophthalmology in 2026 and beyond.
Federal Advocacy Priorities Affecting Retina Care
Discussions at both meetings focused on policies critical to sustaining physician-led retinal care and protecting patient access. Key areas included:
- Medicare physician payment reform, including the 2026 Medicare Physician Fee Schedule, efficiency adjustments, and practice expense changes
- Prior authorization and step therapy reform, aimed at reducing delays and administrative burdens that negatively impact patient care
- Drug payment reform, biosimilars, and site-neutral payment policies
- Vision research funding and preservation of the National Eye Institute’s independence
Veterans Affairs and Department of Defense eye care, workforce challenges, ocular trauma, and community health initiatives
These topics were explored through in-depth panels featuring Academy leadership, health policy specialists, and congressional staff members engaged in shaping federal health policy.
National Leadership in Ophthalmic Advocacy
During the Federal Secretariat meeting, Dr. Hasan—who serves as Chair of OPHTHPAC, the American Academy of Ophthalmology’s political action committee—provided an update on national advocacy and fundraising efforts. Highlights included:
- Continued strong OPHTHPAC fundraising momentum entering the current election cycle
- Expansion of grassroots, peer-to-peer, and digital advocacy initiatives
- Ongoing support for congressional leaders who champion physician-led care and patient access
- Planning for future advocacy programs designed to strengthen ophthalmology’s voice at the federal level
These efforts play a vital role in advancing policies that support sustainable retinal practices and protect patients’ access to timely, high-quality eye care nationwide.
Commitment to Patients, Practices, and the Profession
Participation in OLAG and the Federal Secretariat underscores the shared commitment of Retina Consultants of America and Illinois Retina Associates to advocacy on behalf of patients and physicians. By actively engaging with policymakers and national leaders, Dr. Hasan helps ensure that federal decisions continue to support innovation, safety, and access in retinal care—benefiting patients and practices across Illinois and the entire RCA network.
OLAG 2026 Annual Meeting – Washington, D.C.
Ophthalmic leaders from across the country convene at the 2026 Ophthalmic Leadership Advocacy Group (OLAG) Annual Meeting in Washington, D.C. to discuss federal policy priorities affecting ophthalmology and patient access to care.
Sohail J. Hasan, MD, PhD, FACS, FASRS, FRCSC with Mark Lukaszewski
Dr. Sohail J. Hasan with Mark Lukaszewski, Director of Congressional Affairs, American Academy of Ophthalmology, during federal advocacy meetings in Washington, D.C.
Sohail J. Hasan, MD, PhD, FACS, FASRS, FRCSC with Stephen D. McLeod, MD
Dr. Hasan with Stephen D. McLeod, MD, Chief Executive Officer of the American Academy of Ophthalmology, discussing national advocacy priorities and the future of physician-led eye care.
Dr. Sohail J. Hasan at the Podium
Dr. Sohail J. Hasan addresses the Federal Secretariat for Federal Affairs Committee as part of his role in national ophthalmic advocacy.
OLAG Attendees Group Photo
Participants of the 2026 Ophthalmic Leadership Advocacy Group Annual Meeting, including Dr. Sohail J. Hasan, gathered in Washington, D.C. to advance advocacy efforts on behalf of patients and physicians nationwide.
