The Impact of the COVID-19 Pandemic on Ophthalmology Conferences

Introduction: The COVID-19 pandemic prompted ophthalmology conferences to transition to virtual platforms. The impact of these changes on attendance and research productivity remains underexplored. The objective of this study was to evaluate the effects of virtual platforms on attendance and research inclusion at ophthalmology conferences during the COVID-19 pandemic.

This cross-sectional study analyzed data from 5 ophthalmology conference organizations conducted from 2019 to 2021. Conference meetings were categorized as in-person, virtual, or hybrid. Data included total attendance, trainee participation, and research submissions, obtained directly from each respective organization.

Conference meetings integrating a virtual component experienced a cumulative 7% increase in total attendance and a 28% rise in trainee participation. Research submissions rose by 31%, while research acceptances showed variability, with increases observed in some conferences during the virtual years. These trends highlight the potential for virtual platforms to enhance accessibility and engagement, particularly for trainees.

Virtual platforms had an overall positive impact on ophthalmology conference attendance and research engagement during the COVID-19 pandemic. Continued integration of virtual components is recommended to enhance accessibility and inclusivity.