Dr. Julia Agapov, glaucoma specialist and regional medical director at SSM Health, has made global health equity a personal mission—traveling to Honduras and Uzbekistan seven times to provide eye care and training.
For Dr. Julia Agapov, ophthalmologist specialized in treating glaucoma and regional medical director at SSM Health Davis Duehr Dean in Madison, Wisconsin, the pursuit of global health equity is more than a professional calling, it’s a personal mission. Over the past five years, she has dedicated time each year to international medical outreach, traveling to Honduras five times and Uzbekistan twice to provide eye care and surgical training.
Her most recent journey took her to San Felipe General Hospital in Tegucigalpa, Honduras, where she joined a team of ophthalmology specialists for a high-impact mission. Together, they performed over 80 eye surgeries and offered hands-on mentorship to local ophthalmology residents.
“The collaboration, impact and dedication from everyone involved were truly inspiring,” said Dr. Agapov. “I'm grateful for the opportunity to teach ophthalmology residents, support surgical education, and help restore sight alongside such a passionate team.”
In Honduras, where there is only one ophthalmology residency program in the entire country, the need for specialized training is urgent. Dr. Agapov focuses on teaching second- and third-year residents, with an emphasis on cataract, cornea and glaucoma surgeries. Her goal is not only to treat patients but to empower the next generation of eye care professionals.
Her commitment to mission work began during her own residency in 2006, when she traveled to Nicaragua. Now, with her children grown, she’s able to return to this work with renewed purpose.
“Sharing your knowledge with others in places who don’t have as much access to healthcare makes a difference,” she said.
Dr. Agapov believes that medical professionals have more to offer than they often realize. When asked what advice she would give to others considering a mission trip, her message was clear:
“Believe in yourself. You have great training, skills and knowledge to be shared. You can do more than you think you can.”
Whether performing life-changing surgeries or mentoring young doctors, Dr. Agapov continues to exemplify the power of compassion, collaboration and global service. Her work is a reminder that healing extends beyond borders, and that teaching others to heal is one of the most lasting gifts a physician can give.
