Glaucoma remains a major global threat to vision, particularly as populations age and access to specialized care remains uneven. The American Glaucoma Society Foundation (AGSF) is at the forefront of efforts to combat this challenge. With a mission rooted in innovation, collaboration, and service, the AGSF works to prevent avoidable blindness by accelerating scientific progress and expanding access to critical care.

What is the AGS and Its Mission?

The American Glaucoma Society (AGS) is a professional organization of glaucoma specialists, united by the goal of advancing care for patients with this sight-threatening disease. Through its Foundation (AGSF), the Society supports research, clinical innovation, and education in glaucoma care with input from all sectors—patients, clinicians, industry leaders, and policymakers.

The Foundation funds initiatives that accelerate scientific discovery and the application of cutting-edge therapies. By supporting both academic research and real-world clinical solutions, AGSF aims to improve the lives of millions at risk of blindness. 

AGS Cares: Providing Surgical Help Where It’s Needed Most

AGS Cares is a flagship public service program of the American Glaucoma Society Foundation (AGSF), designed to bring essential surgical glaucoma care to patients in the U.S. who are either uninsured or severely underinsured. The program connects qualifying patients with a nationwide network of volunteer glaucoma surgeons—all members of the AGS—who provide surgical and postoperative care free of charge. 

This effort ensures that individuals without adequate insurance coverage are not left to face progressive vision loss alone. Since its inception, AGS Cares has supported over 200 surgeries and continues to expand its reach across the country.

AGS Cares is sustained through a combination of corporate sponsorships, private donors, and institutional partnerships. Some participating physicians’ institutions also offer patient assistance programs, further offsetting costs and enhancing care continuity.

To apply, patients are evaluated by a participating surgeon who submits the necessary paperwork on their behalf.

For inquiries, you can contact AGS Cares at (415) 561-8587 or AGS@aao.org.

*American Glaucoma Society. (n.d.). AGS CARES: Surgical Glaucoma Care Program. Retrieved from https://www.americanglaucomasociety.net/patient-family-resources/ags-cares 

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AGS Cares is a flagship public service program of the American Glaucoma Society Foundation (AGSF), designed to bring essential surgical glaucoma care to patients in the U.S. who are either uninsured or severely underinsured. The program connects qualifying patients with a nationwide network of volunteer glaucoma surgeons—all members of the AGS—who provide surgical and postoperative care free of charge. 

This effort ensures that individuals without adequate insurance coverage are not left to face progressive vision loss alone. Since its inception, AGS Cares has supported over 200 surgeries and continues to expand its reach across the country.

AGS Cares is sustained through a combination of corporate sponsorships, private donors, and institutional partnerships. Some participating physicians’ institutions also offer patient assistance programs, further offsetting costs and enhancing care continuity.