An update from Dr. Vijitha Vempuluru

I’m thrilled to share an update on my career journey as an ocular oncologist after completing my one-year-long fellowship at the Wills Eye Hospital, Philadelphia, U.S.A., supported by the Victoria Cohen Eye Cancer Charitable Trust (VCECCT). Since finishing my fellowship training, I have embarked on a dynamic path dedicated to advancing the field of ocular oncology and providing exceptional care to patients with eye cancers. Joining the LV Prasad Eye Institute, Hyderabad, India, as a Consultant Ophthalmologist ocular oncologist has provided me with an incredible opportunity to apply the knowledge, skills, and insights gained during my fellowship in a clinical setting.
At the LV Prasad Eye Institute, I am actively involved in diagnosing, treating, and managing a wide range of ocular malignancies, collaborating closely with a multidisciplinary team to develop personalized treatment plans tailored to each patient’s unique needs. Additionally, I have continued to pursue research initiatives to advance the understanding and treatment of eye cancers, focusing on retinoblastoma and ocular surface squamous neoplasia.
Participating in an oncology fellowship program in the United States has been instrumental in enhancing my practice in India in numerous ways. The exposure to a great variety of tumors, cutting-edge technologies, treatment modalities, and multidisciplinary approaches to cancer care during my fellowship has significantly enriched my clinical skills and knowledge base. Additionally, collaborating with renowned oncologists and researchers in the U.S. provided me with invaluable insights into global best practices and emerging trends in oncology. By integrating the lessons learned from my fellowship training into my clinical practice in India, I am better equipped to provide comprehensive, patient-centered care to individuals facing cancer, ultimately improving outcomes and enhancing the quality of life for my patients.
Thanks to the support from VCECCT, I was able to pursue advanced education and specialized training in ocular oncology, a field I am deeply passionate about. This support enabled me to fully immerse myself in the rigorous curriculum of ocular oncology without financial constraints. Beyond academic and clinical pursuits, the support empowered me to give back to the ocular oncology community and advocate for patients affected by rare and often devastating eye cancers. As someone deeply involved in the field, I’ve witnessed the immense impact that specialized training can have on the lives of patients facing eye cancer.
The fellowship experience fostered a culture of continuous learning and innovation, encouraging me to implement evidence-based practices and quality standards in my practice. Through ongoing education, mentorship, and professional development opportunities at the L V Prasad Eye Institute, I am committed to furthering my expertise and contributing to the advancement of ocular oncology. It’s a privilege to be part of a dedicated team of healthcare professionals working tirelessly to make a meaningful difference in the lives of patients affected by eye cancers.
I look forward to the continued growth and impact of my career in this rewarding field, and I am grateful to VCECCT for making this possible.

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