Ask the Expert 2026
Bojana Askovich, Ph.D.
Retinal Consultants Medical Group
As a biomedical scientist and clinical research leader, Dr. Askovich is committed to advancing patient care through innovation. Trained as a physician in Serbia, she moved to the United States to complete a Ph.D. in biochemistry and a postdoctoral fellowship in molecular biology. Over the past 20 years, she has led clinical research operations at major institutions, where her work has centered on designing, launching and managing early-phase oncology clinical trials.
What is your role at Retinal Consultants Medical Group?
Today, I serve as the Director of Clinical Research at RCMG, where I oversee our expanding portfolio of ophthalmology clinical trials. My role includes building research infrastructure, supporting our physician investigators, and ensuring that every study meets the highest standards of safety, quality and scientific rigor. I also ensure that patients are well informed about their options and that our research teams provide compassionate, clear and consistent guidance throughout the clinical trial process.
Why are clinical trials important?
Clinical trials are essential because they are the only pathway to discovering better treatments. The therapies we rely on today exist because patients before us participated in research. In retina care, conditions such as macular degeneration, diabetic retinopathy and inherited retinal diseases are complex and progressive. If we simply continued using current treatments, we would limit our ability to slow vision loss, improve quality of life, or one day restore sight. Importantly, patients in clinical trials often receive more frequent health monitoring than they would in routine practice, which enhances both safety and support.
What does the future of clinical trials look like?
The future of ophthalmology trials is promising and increasingly patient-centered, with expanded access, improved support services, and innovative therapies on the horizon. At RCMG, every study brings us one step closer to preventing blindness and improving the lives of patients across our region.
Retinal Consultants Medical Group has 13 locations across Northern California. Visit retinalmd.com for more info.
