David W. Parke II, MD, assumes AAO presidency

San Francisco-David W. Parke II, MD, became the new president of the American Academy of Ophthalmology (AAO) Jan. 1, succeeding C.P. Wilkinson, MD.

“There has never been a more exciting time for ophthalmology, as medical advances give ophthalmologists breakthrough treatment options to save vision,” said Dr. Parke, the Edward L. Gaylord Professor and chairman of the Department of Ophthalmology at the University of Oklahoma, Oklahoma City. “Ophthalmology is also faced with challenges ranging from Medicare reimbursement to scope of practice. I look forward to serving the [AAO] and its members in the year ahead.”

Dr. Parke, also president and chief executive officer of the Dean A. McGee Eye Institute in Oklahoma City, has held numerous leadership positions in the AAO. He has served on the organization’s board since 2000, first as trustee-at-large from 2000 to 2001 and subsequently as senior secretary for ophthalmic practice from 2002 to 2006. He also has served the organization as a member of the Investment Task Force and committees on instruction, nominations, awards, and bylaws and rules; as associate secretary for continuing education; as a member of the retina panel of the Preferred Practice Pattern Committee; and as a councilor for the Association of University Professors of Ophthalmology (AUPO). He received the AAO’s Senior Achievement Award in 1998.

“Few leaders come to this presidency post with this much experience and dedication to the [AAO] and the profession,” said H. Dunbar Hoskins Jr., MD, the group’s executive vice president. “We are thrilled to have Dr. Parke lead us through this year.”

Dr. Parke received his medical degree from Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, and completed his residency there in 1981 at the Cullen Eye Institute, followed by a fellowship in medical retina and a subsequent fellowship in surgical retina.

His other active medical leadership positions include president of the AUPO and director of the American Board of Ophthalmology. He serves on multiple professional boards, including the Oklahoma Academy of Ophthalmology. He also is a member of the board of directors of Ophthalmic Mutual Insurance Co. and Medem Inc.