Abstract
This YEAR, the United States hosted the "Summit of the Americas" that brought together heads of states from all of the Americas to discuss and provide solutions to many of the problems faced in our hemisphere. As US ophthalmology becomes globalized, it is in the interest of ophthalmologists to know the current status and possible solutions to the problems related to visual health in Latin America.Ophthalmology in Latin America developed its early roots from European ophthalmology and native and African folk remedies. A tremendous diversity emerged from these early beginnings. The influence of US ophthalmology began mostly at the turn of the century when communication and transportation between the United States and Latin America improved. Latin American ophthalmologists came to the United States for training and returned home with new ideas and concepts, although strong ties with European ophthalmology continued to be nurtured through residency programs such as the
