Industry Pros Honored With GSLS Awards - Scorecard - MDSpire

Industry Pros Honored With GSLS Awards

The 2026 recipients of the Global Specialty Lens Symposium (GSLS) Awards were honored on January 8 at the annual meeting in Las Vegas. Patrick Caroline received the Award of Excellence, and Maria K. Walker, OD, PhD, received the Rising Star Award.

  • By

  • Kerri Ann DeCindis

  • January 1, 2026

  • 4 min

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Clinical Scorecard: Industry Pros Honored With GSLS Awards

At a Glance

CategoryDetail
ConditionSpecialty Contact Lens Development
Key MechanismsAdvancements in clinical practice, education, and research in specialty contact lenses.
Target PopulationClinicians, researchers, and patients requiring specialty contact lenses.
Care SettingOptometry and specialty lens clinics.

Key Highlights

  • Patrick Caroline received the Award of Excellence for significant contributions to specialty lenses.
  • Maria K. Walker, OD, PhD, received the Rising Star Award for emerging leadership in the field.
  • Awards recognize advancements in clinical practice, education, and knowledge translation.
  • Caroline has published over 360 papers and lectured globally on contact lenses.
  • Walker focuses on keratoconus, childhood myopia, and specialty contact lenses.

Guideline-Based Recommendations

Diagnosis

  • Utilize comprehensive eye exams to assess the need for specialty contact lenses.

Management

  • Implement evidence-based practices for fitting and managing specialty contact lenses.

Monitoring & Follow-up

  • Regular follow-ups to monitor lens fit and ocular health.

Risks

  • Be aware of potential complications associated with specialty lens wear.

Patient & Prescribing Data

Patients requiring specialty contact lenses for conditions like keratoconus and myopia.

Focus on individualized care and the impact of specialty lenses on patient quality of life.

Clinical Best Practices

  • Engage in continuous education on advancements in specialty contact lenses.
  • Collaborate with peers and mentors to enhance clinical skills and knowledge.

Related Resources & Content

Original Source(s)

Industry Pros Honored With GSLS Awards

  • by Kerri Ann DeCindis

  • January 1, 2026

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