David Verity

About David Verity

“For over forty years I have been interested in ophthalmology in the Middle East, and with the Order of St John of Jerusalem have collaborated with Palestinian and Israeli colleagues throughout Israel, the West Bank, and Gaza. The Order has worked in the region since 1882, is apolitical, and delivers high-quality eye care irrespective of race, religion, or the ability to pay.

“This ethos remains as compelling to me today as it did when I was a medical student posted to Rafah in southern Gaza in 1987. I have since served the Order to the best of my ability, and conducted a genetics doctorate with Palestinian, Israeli, Japanese and British colleagues. In 2015 I co-founded a postgraduate division for the Eye Hospital Group and continue as clinical lead in 2026. The organisation has grown across the continents, hosts high-quality Masterclasses in London, supports St John’s postgraduate programme, and provides opportunities for their young trainees. I lecture regularly at the Hadassah Hospital in Jerusalem, in 2024 was appointed visiting Professor to the University, and sponsor and train both Israeli and Palestinian surgeons. Finally, through channels in Jordan, I continue to work to improve medical environments in Gaza.

“In a similar spirit of medical collaboration, in 2024 I formed the first multidisciplinary team to tackle sinus, orbital, and neurosurgical disease with my good colleagues in Moorfields Eye Hospital, and UCH, London. This group also supports the Neuro-orbital Masterclass series, bringing experts together to improve surgical care in the field.

“Collaboration across specialties, including complex geopolitical borders, develops training opportunities and drives up clinical standards. Medicine is apolitical and is unique in terms of the bridges of trust it can build. I continue to serve in this field, and the Order of St John, into 2026 and beyond.”