A member of staff at NHS Greater Glasgow and Clyde has received a major accolade on the anniversary of one of the greatest advances in eye surgery in the last century.
David Lockington, Consultant Ophthalmologist at the Tennent Institute, Gartnavel General Hospital, Glasgow, has taken over as President of the UK and Ireland Society of Cataract and Refractive Surgeons (UKISCRS).
His appointment coincides with the 75th anniversary of the intraocular lens (IOL), which since its first use by British Surgeon Sir Harold Ridley has helped restore the sight of millions of people worldwide affected by cataracts.
David takes over from outgoing president Professor Paul Ursell, and his appointment further cements the international reputation of the Tennent Institute and the staff who work there.
This is the latest accolade for David, who earlier this year was named in The Ophthalmologist Magazine’s Top 100 Power List for 2024. He said: “It is a great honour to be taking up this post with the UKISCRS – and for it to happen on the 75th anniversary of such an important advancement in cataract surgery, and ophthalmology in general, is particularly special.
“However, all achievements are based on teamwork, and I see this appointment as recognition of the important work being done by all those involved within ophthalmology across NHS Greater Glasgow and Clyde.
“I look forward to working with colleagues across the UK, Ireland and internationally to further enhance the quality of care we can give to all our patients.”
David has been an ophthalmologist since 2005 after qualifying in medicine at Queen’s University, Belfast, in 2003, and moving to Glasgow in 2007.
After a brief spell in New Zealand 2012-2013, he returned to NHSGGC in 2013 as a consultant ophthalmologist, determined to provide high quality care to his cataract and corneal patients, and also to passing on his knowledge and experience to the next generation of ophthalmologists.
Alongside his new position at the UKISCRS and clinical roles with NHSGGC and at the Nuffield Glasgow Hospital, he is National Simulation Lead for the Royal College of Ophthalmologists and editor for Eye News magazine.
David, who lives in Bearsden with his wife and two teenage children, has a very simple formula for the job that he does, and what success in his role looks like.
He said: “I want to be the best I can be, and give my best to my patients every day – that’s ultimately why I’m here.
“Glasgow is the largest training centre for ophthalmology in Scotland, and as a teacher and mentor – setting a positive example to trainees and through developing simulation, research and training opportunities that will allow them to not just survive but thrive – that’s where my true satisfaction lies.”
Liza Campbell, Clinical Service Manager for Ophthalmology at NHS Greater Glasgow and Clyde, said: “I would like to extend my congratulations to David on his appointment to this prestigious role.
“Such appointments enhance the reputation of the Tennent Institute, benefiting both our staff and, most importantly, our patients. I also want to express my gratitude to David and the entire ophthalmology department in Glasgow for their daily dedication to helping our eye patients.”
For more about the UKISCRS and its 75th anniversary celebrations, go to UKISCRS United Kingdom & Ireland Society of Cataract & Refractive Surgeons
