Ophthalmology Specialty Profile

Ophthalmology

Ophthalmology practice involves the diagnosis and management of diseases that affect the eye and associated structures such as the eyelids, extraocular muscles and associated nerve pathways. The field includes both medical and surgical approaches, deals with both paediatric and adult patients, and utilises rapidly advancing technology. Ophthalmologists also play an important role in the prevention and early identification of visual impairment, particularly in high risk groups (e.g diabetics).

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Ophthalmology Training Program

Training Program

The Royal Australian and New Zealand College of Ophthalmologists is responsible for training and assessment. The vocational training program is covered in some detail on the college website. A particularly useful FAQ about the selection process is available.... more

Application process

Entry into the training program requires application and selection to an accredited ophthalmology training post. A minimum of 2 years pre-vocational training experience is required prior to application. Hospital networks are primarily responsible for trainee selection, according to selection guidelines... more

Length of Training

A minimum of five years full time (or equivalent) training is required.... more

Cost of Training

Annual Training Fee $2,500.00 Annual Membership Fee for Trainees $ 182.00 Behaviour assessment and registration for matching $ 950.00 Matching only registration fee $ 250.00 Examinations Ophthalmic Basic Sciences (seven in all) $250.00 per exam Total $1,750.00 Ophthalmic Basic Sciences... more

Availability/Competition for training positions

Application for entry into training is highly competitive, often with a very high quality pool of applicants. In 2006, there were 85 applicants for 25 positions in Australia and New Zealand.... more

Flexibility in Training

Part-time and interrupted training is approved on a case by case basis.... more

Ophthalmology Workplace

The workplace

Ophthalmology is largely practised in outpatient clinics, with a significant but lesser time spent in the operating theatre. Offices tend to be filled with a range of gadgets and high-tech instruments which reflects the rapidly developing diagnostic and therapeutic modalities... more

The doctor-patient relationship

Ophthalmologists spend a lot of time on direct patient care, and relationships with patients are often long term. Many patients seen can be helped, often with a profound impact on their quality of life. Few emergencies or fatal illnesses are... more

Intellectual content

Comprehensive training in the ophthalmic sciences is provided. Clinical and surgical skills are built upon a sound basis of ocular anatomy, physiology, optics, microbiology, pharmacology, ophthalmic instruments, basic pathology and epidemiology. Ocular manifestations of systemic diseases (e.g diabetes, hyperthyroidism, inflammatory... more

Medical indemnity

Medico-legal issues have not been problematic in the past. However, increasing numbers of elective procedures such as laser vision correction, often accompanied by unrealistic patient expectations, may expose specialists to a higher litigation risk. Use our risk category tool to... more

Lifestyle and Practice Options

Almost all ophthalmologists in Australia work in the private sector, in an outpatient setting and during regular business hours. A significant number of specialists also have public hospital appointments. Any out of hours or on-call commitments are generally not onerous.... more

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