Dr. Patricia Bath was a groundbreaking African American ophthalmologist, inventor, and academic. She is best known for inventing the Laserphaco Probe, a device that revolutionized cataract surgery by using a laser to remove cataracts in a less invasive way. This invention improved the accuracy and precision of cataract surgery and made the procedure faster and more effective.

Dr. Bath was the first African American woman to complete a residency in ophthalmology and the first African American woman to be appointed chair of an ophthalmology residency program in the United States. Throughout her career, she focused on addressing health disparities in underserved communities and advocating for increased access to eye care for all.

In addition to her medical achievements, Dr. Bath was a pioneer for women and African Americans in the field of medicine. She co-founded the American Institute for the Prevention of Blindness and was a strong advocate for diversity and inclusion in healthcare.

Dr. Patricia Bath's legacy in Black history and medicine continues to inspire generations of aspiring doctors and scientists to break barriers and make impactful contributions to healthcare and innovation.