From Babylon to Berlin

Iraqi-born ophthalmologist Hasan Chichan reflects on bridging the divide between modern retina care and humanitarian medicine

By
Hasan Chichan
May 26, 2026
7 min

The Ophthalmologist

Overview

This report discusses the author's experiences as an ophthalmologist working in both Germany and various countries in the Middle East and North Africa. It highlights the disparities in ophthalmic care and the importance of establishing sustainable healthcare systems in underserved regions.

Background

The contrast between healthcare systems in developed and developing regions is stark, particularly in ophthalmology. Patients in low-resource settings often present with advanced stages of diseases that could have been managed earlier with timely interventions. Understanding these disparities is crucial for improving global health outcomes.

Data Highlights

No numerical or trial data is presented in the article.

Key Findings

The author has performed over 700 surgeries during humanitarian missions in the past 18 months.
Patients in low-resource settings often present with advanced ocular diseases, such as cataracts and diabetic retinopathy.
High-volume surgical days can be organized efficiently with proper triage and standardized protocols.
Photobiomodulation (PBM) therapy is gaining traction as a regenerative modality for early dry AMD.
Subthreshold nanosecond laser (SNL) therapy is being explored as a non-invasive treatment option.

Clinical Implications

The need for structured healthcare systems in underserved regions is evident, as many patients present with advanced disease states. Implementing efficient triage and surgical protocols can improve patient outcomes significantly.

Conclusion

The experiences shared highlight the importance of bridging the gap in ophthalmic care between developed and developing regions, emphasizing the need for sustainable healthcare practices.