Andrew M. Prince, MD

My decision to pursue a career in medicine was totally driven by a desire to give back to my community, a value emphasized as part of my family’s culture. Witnessing the impact that healthcare can have on individuals and communities motivated me to contribute to the wellbeing of others. I sought to combine this altruistic incentive with my strength in science, recognizing the vital role medicine plays in enhancing and supporting lives.

My reasons for choosing to specialize in ophthalmology were twofold. The first was an appreciation for the importance of vision. It allows us to perceive and interpret the world around us, providing crucial information about our surroundings, making it integral to most of our daily activities and connecting us to the rest of the world. Second, as a medical student, I was always interested in medical specialties like ophthalmology that require a physician to manage the medical as well as surgical treatments of a given disease.

As a glaucoma and anterior segment surgeon, I medically and surgically treat adult patients who have any of the forms of glaucoma, cataracts, and other anterior segment diseases. At the NYU Langone Eye Center, we use advanced diagnostic tools to understand our patients’ conditions. We have a top-notch support staff, and our operating rooms provide state-of-the-art equipment for all surgical interventions.

Glaucoma is a chronic disease requiring regular follow-ups to test and confirm maintenance of treatment goals. Such follow-ups facilitate building strong relationships with patients. This close continuity of care allows for a greater understanding of each person’s medical history, preferences, and unique needs. Additionally, establishing a rapport over time fosters trust and open communication, enabling me to adapt my approach to individual patients. This not only enhances the quality of care but also contributes to a patient’s overall wellbeing.

Since I began my career in medicine, I have also been an active participant in both professional and patient advocacy. My leadership roles in medicine have included positions on the board of trustees of both the American Academy of Ophthalmology and the New York State Ophthalmological Society. I continue to lobby for quality patient care at both the national and state level and remain the department point for advocacy.