ARVO Recognizes Rohit Varma, MD, MPH, World Renowned Epidemiologist and Chief Medical Officer, as 2021 ARVO Gold Fellow

ARVO Gold Fellows are recognized for exemplary contributions and dedication to vision science research and serve as role models for the next generation of research ophthalmologists

LOS ANGELES--(BUSINESS WIRE)--Rohit Varma, MD, MPH, founding director of the Southern California Eye Institute and chief medical officer at CHA Hollywood Presbyterian Medical Center (CHA HPMC), a member of CHA Health Systems, a global network providing a full spectrum of dynamic healthcare services, was recognized by ARVO as a Class of 2021 ARVO Gold Fellow for exemplary contributions and dedication to vision science research.

“It is an honor to be recognized by ARVO for my contributions to vision science, and I am humbled to be included with such an accomplished group of vision scientists,” Dr. Varma said. “My research is aimed at understanding the burden and impact of eye disease on vulnerable and minority groups, and tailoring eye care to their individual needs. For the past 25 years, I have been fortunate to have learned from giants in the field, and I intend to continue to support and mentor the next generation of vision scientists.”

Rohit Varma, MD, MPH, has been leading research in this important area for three decades. His three most recent peer-reviewed publications include Retinal Nerve Fiber Layer Thickness in Healthy Eyes of African, Chinese, and Latino Americans: A Population-based Multiethnic Study, focusing on a population-based study of eye disease amongst African, Chinese, and Latino Americans; A Mitochondrial Genome-Wide Association Study of Cataract in a Latino Population; and Ocular Biometric Determinants of Anterior Chamber Angle Width in Chinese Americans: The Chinese American Eye Study, the largest Chinese American study in the world.

“It is a great honor for a prestigious organization to acknowledge our chief medical officer as the ARVO Gold Fellow,” said Marcel Loh, CHA HPMC chief executive officer. “With Dr. Varma’s ongoing research, I hope to strengthen our advancements in clinical care to provide the highest quality eye care to our communities.”

The title of ARVO Gold Fellow is an honor established to recognize current members for their individual accomplishments, leadership, and contributions. ARVO Gold Fellows serve as role models and mentors for individuals pursuing careers in vision science and ophthalmological research and help further ARVO’s mission, which includes advancing basic and clinical knowledge and serving as the leading international forum for vision research and the primary advocate for vision science worldwide.

About Southern California Eye Institute

Southern California Eye Institute is dedicated to providing the highest level of vision care, using the latest technology and treatments to deliver the best outcome to patients in Los Angeles and from around the world. The institute’s expert physician-scientists are advancing innovations in stem cell and regenerative therapies, artificial intelligence and bioelectronic implants to further the prevention, early detection and treatment of eye diseases and conditions. Founded by world-renowned ophthalmologist Rohit Varma, MD, MPH, SCEI is located in Los Angeles at CHA Hollywood Presbyterian Medical Center. For more information, visit www.sceyes.org.

About CHA Hollywood Presbyterian Medical Center

CHA Hollywood Presbyterian Medical Center (CHA HPMC) is a nationally recognized acute care facility that has cared for Hollywood and its surrounding communities since 1924. Today, CHA HPMC offers comprehensive health care services with a 434-bed acute care facility, including 89 skilled nursing beds. The hospital has a medical staff of more than 500 physicians and specialists, representing 69 specialties and 75 different countries. CHA HPMC embraces the area’s diverse, multicultural patient populations by providing all who walk through its doors quality care in a compassionate manner. It is a member of CHA Health Systems, a dynamic global healthcare organization that provides a full spectrum of services in seven countries around the world, including 25 hospitals and clinics, 30 research and 14 education institutions and 30 bio/pharmaceutical/healthcare companies. For more information, visit http://www.hollywoodpresbyterian.com.