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Amniotic membrane therapy is changing how optometrists approach stubborn corneal disease and complex dry eye. In this episode of The 2020 Podcast, host Dr. Harbir Sian sits down with Dr. Julian Prosia, founder of Ophthalmologic Canada, to unpack what an amniotic membrane is, why it works, and how any clinician can integrate it—without needing a full dry eye boutique. From indications and chairside workflow to cost realities and insurance advocacy, Dr. Prosia shares practical insights and an unforgettable patient story that reframed his early career. This is a blueprint for delivering faster healing and building true clinical expertise—the real “10,000 hours.”

Episode summary

Dr. Prosia practices in Hamilton, Ontario, where a passion for medical optometry and dry eye care led him to co-found Ophthalmologic Canada in 2023 to bring Health Canada- and FDA-approved amniotic membranes north of the border. He breaks down the science in plain language: the amniotic membrane—the innermost placental layer—packs anti-inflammatory, anti-angiogenic, and anti-fibrotic properties that accelerate corneal healing across more than 30 indications, from recurrent erosions and sterile ulcers to persistent epithelial defects and recalcitrant dry eye. He also tackles real-world barriers—training, cost, and coverage—and offers templates and collaboration pathways to help practices get started responsibly.

A core theme is clinical judgment. Devices are tools; expertise is knowing when (and when not) to use each tool. Prosia argues that mixed disease (aqueous + evaporative) is under-recognized and that protocols must move beyond one-modality mindsets. He calls for clearer roadmaps for new grads, more case-based education, and continued advocacy with associations and payers so patients aren’t priced out of care that returns them to daily life in days to weeks—not months.

Key takeaways

• Amniotic membrane is a high-impact option for ~32 corneal indications, not just “dry eye specialists.”
• The chairside procedure is approachable: place, smooth, bandage lens—minutes, not hours.
• Business model: case-by-case ordering or small inventory (5-year shelf life) allows immediate ROI without six-figure device spend.
• Mixed dry eye is common; don’t over-index on meibomian-only solutions. Build blended plans (inflammation, surface, lids, tear volume).
• Education & advocacy: use shared templates, partner with associations, and contribute to coverage efforts to expand access.
• Expertise ≠ equipment: your 10,000 hours are about pattern recognition, sequencing care, and outcome tracking.