Reflecting on Achievements: The Impact of the 2025 AAO Advocacy Program

NANOS proudly sponsored Nicholas Levergood, MD at the Mid-Year Forum 2025 through our Advocacy Ambassador program. This sponsorship aligns with NANOS's mission and advocacy goals, supporting emerging leaders in neuro-ophthalmology. The Mid-Year Forum brings the ophthalmology community together, including members of the North American Neuro-Ophthalmology Society (NANOS), to implement the highest quality of care for patients through politics, policy, and practice management.

^{From left to right: Andrew Melson, MD; Barbara Yates, MD; John Chen, MD, PhD; Courtney Francis, MD; Prem Subramanian, MD, PhD; Claudia Prospero Ponce, MD; Peter Quiros, MD; Kim Winges, MD;
Ore-ofe Adesina, MD; Nicholas Levergood, MD.}

Dr. Levergood shared this about his experience:

How were the interests of neuro-ophthalmology represented in the sessions? 

I thought they were represented well in our state delegation. I spoke about the impact of Medicare reimbursement change and how it affects access to care in Indiana to very high-demand subspecialities such as Neuro-ophthalmology. I provided them the example of my own fellowship which has been impacted by the loss of a private practice location due to inability to continue being profitable in today’s insurance environment, which I felt was an impactful story to share. I discussed how this not only impacts patients in the Indianapolis area, but my education and future fellows, as well.  

Dr. Adesina also spoke well during the YO Committee and represented Neuro-oph well from that standpoint, among many others I did not directly hear speak in their individual regional and state meetings. It was very nice to see so many familiar faces in the Neuro-oph space representing the subspecialty so well at Mid-Year Forum. I think it helps build not only our relationships with legislators on Capitol Hill, but also within AAO so they see our specialty as thriving and engaged in national advocacy efforts.  

What additional guidance or sessions were provided to you as an Advocacy Ambassador? 

We had separated events just for Advocacy Ambassadors where they talked about the LEAP program (Leadership, Engagement, Advocacy and Practice). This occurred for most of the day on Friday, after the day on the Hill. There were also separate networking events scattered throughout the event.  

What changes in your practice or advocacy efforts will you make based on what you learned throughout the program? 

I have a much deeper understanding of the issues at play and affecting the practice of Neuro-ophthalmology. I made a donation to the Surgical Scope Fund and will look forward to attending MYF next year as well.  

Support the Future of Neuro-Ophthalmology: Donate to the NANOS today!

Are you passionate about advancing the field of neuro-ophthalmology and making a real impact on patient care? The NANOS AAO Advocacy Program is your gateway to actively shaping the future of our profession. By supporting this program with your donation, you will empower dedicated professionals to engage with policymakers, advocate for critical issues, and collaborate to elevate the standards of care. Your contribution will help drive change and ensure that the voices of neuro-ophthalmology advocates are heard in the halls of Congress and beyond. Don't miss out on the chance to make a difference—donate today and be a part of this dynamic initiative!