Ophthalmologist

An ophthalmologist is a doctor that specialises in eyes, their functions and problems assocaited with vision and the eyes.  An ophthalmologist's role is to diagnose and treat diseases and problems relating to vision and the eyes.  Wikipedia states an ophthalmologist is "A specialist in medical and surgical eye problems. Since ophthalmologists perform operations on eyes, they are considered to be both a surgical  and medical  specialty."

 

 

Ophthalmologists are trained to provide their opinions to patients regarding all areas of eye care. They may prescribe glasses and contact lenses or suggest and perform complex and delicate eye surgeries. As well, many ophthalmologists are also involved in scientific research. They conduct studies in order to develop opinions on the causes and cures for eye diseases and vision problems. They are dedicated to helping people see and take pride in being able to contribute to vision solutions. 

 

 

1. Requirements 

Ophthalmologists attend four years of medical school and complete a one year internship.  Every ophthalmologist must also spend a minimum of three to four years as a resident (hospital-based training). During this residency, they receive special training in all aspects of eye care. Often, an ophthalmologist spends an additional one to two years training in a specific area of eye care (for example, glaucoma or pediatric ophthalmology.)

 

2. Salary 

 

The starting salary for an ophthalmologist is approximately $50000 per year. However, this wage can reach up to and beyond $115000 per year for an experienced and specialised ophthalmologist.

3. What you will study

In order to become an ophthalmologist you must attend medical school. Generally, in order to be accepted into medical school you must major in a subject such as psychology, biology, physics, mathematics, chemistry or organic chemistry. As well, medical schools also require courses in the humanities.

While you are working towards a medical degree you will study various subject matters including pediatrics, surgery, internal medicine, family medicine, obstetrics-gynecology and psychiatry.

Once you become a resident, you will focus on specialties such as internal medicine, neurology, pediatrics, surgery, family practice, or emergency medicine as well as 36 months of formal training in ophthalmology.

After completing your residency an ophthalmologist may continue studying in order to specialise. Subspecialties include: Cornea and external disease, cataract and refractive surgery, glaucoma, uveitis and ocular immunology, vitreoretinal diseases, ophthalmic plastic surgery, pediatric ophthalmology, neuro-ophthalmology and ophthalmic pathology.