In this months feature, Erin Shriver shares how she saw the need for change, and explores how she was stirred into action – and why she is urging other ophthalmologists to recognize the same need for change. For Erin, it all started with an awkward conversation. When faced with a patient who had an orbital floor fracture – the result of intimate partner violence (IPV) – she realized that she didn’t know what to say. And she is not alone. On discovering that 45 percent of IPV-related injuries occur around the eye, it dawned on Erin that other ophthalmologists weren’t getting involved in a clearly important issue – and that it might be because they are also unsure of what to say. Making it her mission to improve matters, Erin began conducting research in earnest and teamed up with an IPV specialist – and she has been leading a global call to action ever since.
The reason for my editorial title? Erin’s call to action – which aims to have big impact on the lives of patients affected by IPV – actually relies on ophthalmologists making just a few small changes. By being more aware of the issue and by altering just a few practical elements of care, it is possible to more easily identify and manage those who may have sustained an IPV-related injury – with a view to their future safety. Erin has also fully considered the bigger picture: “As ophthalmologists, we have the ability to permanently – and positively – alter our patient’s lives. But why stop there? We are also in a unique position as clinicians to affect large scale social change.” By partnering with global organizations, and being involved in initiatives to celebrate “Champions of Change,” Erin is making the most of that unique position – and I find her inspiring. Not only did she recognize the need for change and tackle it head on – she also made it her mission to help others make the same changes. It is often said that “change is never easy,” but it seems to me that Erin has clearly demonstrated that minor modifications can have a big impact.
Ruth Steer Editor
