TFS HealthScience Expands Its Ophthalmology Division
TFS HealthScience (TFS), a prominent global Contract Research Organization (CRO), has recently announced an expansion of its ophthalmology business unit. This growth comes in response to the increasing need for specialized clinical studies in the eye care sector. With the global ophthalmology market projected to surge to nearly $60 billion in 2023, and expected to reach $94 billion by 2030, TFS is positioning itself strategically to capitalize on this opportunity.
Meeting a Growing Demand
The rising investment in new therapies for vision restoration has escalated the demand for CRO partners adept at managing complex, global programs. To effectively respond to this need, TFS has adopted a therapeutically focused operational model paired with a dedicated ophthalmology team boasting extensive expertise across retinal, corneal, and neuro-ophthalmological areas.
Markus Granlund, the new CEO of TFS, has instituted a decentralized structure that empowers each therapeutic area to deliver end-to-end services independently. Leading this vision in ophthalmology is Vice President and Head of Ophthalmology, Marcia Swank, who has transformed the division into a key partner for companies developing therapies and devices for eye diseases.
“In ophthalmology, every day counts for sponsors vying for innovations and patients waiting for better options,” said Swank. “As studies become increasingly complex and technology reshapes the landscape, CROs must evolve to deliver faster, smarter, and always with a patient-centric focus.”
New Leadership and Strategic Vision
Recently appointed, Bhakti Patel takes on the role of Senior Director of Project Delivery within the ophthalmology team. With nearly two decades of experience in clinical research across sponsors, sites, and CROs, Patel specializes in conducting ophthalmic studies and device development. She will spearhead the formation of a dedicated site optimization department and oversee strategic management of device-related programs.
Patel expressed her enthusiasm about joining TFS at this crucial growth stage, stating, “Ophthalmological studies require tailored execution, and this team has built the infrastructure, agility, and depth to take on these challenges head-on.”
The ophthalmology division's strategy incorporates valuable insights into global study execution, data strategy, analytics, safety, and finances. This ensures that every ophthalmology program is backed by solid expertise, operational alignment, and sponsor-centric solutions.
Diverse Study Portfolio
Currently, TFS is managing a broad portfolio of ophthalmologic studies at various phases across North America, Europe, and the Asia-Pacific region. The team has played a pivotal role in expanding the company’s footprint in the APAC region while supporting programs globally, including one recently receiving FDA approval. Ongoing studies cover a range of conditions, such as geographic atrophy due to age-related macular degeneration, diabetic macular edema, retinal vein occlusion, neurotrophic keratitis, and gene therapy programs for retinitis pigmentosa. This illustrates the team’s therapeutic depth and capability to support both large and small sponsors from initial development to market release.
Furthermore, TFS has been fostering innovative partnerships aimed at integrating digital technologies into the workflows of ophthalmic studies. This includes a recent collaboration with RetinAI and MAXO to implement AI-powered imaging and analytics in clinical development.
Commitment to Transformation
As TFS continues to evolve, the ophthalmology business unit, alongside its other divisions, exemplifies the synergy of strategic leadership, global infrastructure, and scientific knowledge to meet the demands of today’s clinical development landscape.
About TFS HealthScience
TFS HealthScience is a full-service global CRO that collaborates with biotechnology and pharmaceutical companies to advance innovative treatments and enhance patient outcomes. With offices in 50 countries, TFS and its strategic partners provide tailored solutions for strategic sourcing and clinical development in specialized therapeutic areas, including dermatology, internal medicine, neuroscience, oncology, and ophthalmology. TFS remains committed to empowering partners and enriching lives through flexible solutions that marry global reach with the responsiveness of a medium-sized CRO. For more information, visit
www.tfscro.com.