Department of Ophthalmology

Residency Program

Overview

The first year ophthalmology residents spend most of their time in the general ophthalmology clinics.  They also perform minor surgical procedures such as chalazia and pterygia.  They may also act as first assistant on some more advanced surgical procedures.  The second year residents focus on the subspecialties:  of pediatrics and neuro-ophthalmology, along with the general ophthalmology clinics.  They perform strabismus repair and some laser surgery, as well as first assist retina, cornea and oculoplastic cases.  Second years also spend half a day per week working with low vision patients.  The third year residents act as chief residents and perform all anterior and posterior segment cases, as well as the bulk of the oculoplastic and laser surgeries.  The chief has the added responsibility of administrative duties.  She/He allocates the in-patient consults, sets up the OR schedule and assists with the medical students’ education.

The NYC Ophthalmology Residency Program is not only committed to surgical expertise but also to the academic excellence of its residents. Every morning before the clinical and surgical day starts there are either lectures, rounds, conferences and journal clubs that cover the full gamut of clinical and basic sciences. Teleconferencing between institutions minimizes the time spent driving. Residents are also invited to attend the ophthalmology lectures at the New York Academy of Medicine at the Westchester County Medical Society and utilize the Surgical Practice Laboratory at the New York Eye & Ear Infirmary. Monthly Grand Rounds at WMC include presentations by invited guest speakers.

The American Academy of Ophthalmology Home Study Course is the centerpiece of the weekly lectures.  Sections are assigned to specific faculty members who have expertise in that particular field of study.  Clinical conferences include the weekly Grand Rounds consisting of extensive case presentations by residents with constructive academic discussion by attending staff and residents.  At a monthly journal club, the residents and attendings discuss and critique articles of the leading ophthalmology journals.

Maintaining a commitment to academic excellence, residents will complete a manuscript-ready research project during their training.  Time is allocated for completion of this project during their training.  NYMC supports the residents in attending the major ophthalmologic conferences and encourages their participation at these meetings.  The close tie with the medical students of NYMC helps to develop the teaching skills of our residents.