Ophthalmology as a career

Ophthalmological practice include both medicine and surgery, treatment of paediatric and adult patients, and provision of primary care as well as highly specialised treatment. For most, cataract removal is the most commonly performed surgical procedure. Given the nature and wide prevalence of eye problems, a patient's relationship with an ophthalmologist may continue over many years.

Scientific and technological advances offer possibilities for diagnostic precision in ophthalmology, and a wide range of clinical and research opportunities in a number of sub-specialties. These include cornea and external disease, glaucoma, neuro-ophthalmology, ophthalmic pathology, ocular inflammation, oculo-plastics, orbital surgery, paediatric ophthalmology, vitreoretinal disease, and developing world ophthalmology.

Those considering the field should be aware that certain visual and motor abilities are necessary. An ophthalmologist should have good fine motor skills, adequate hand/foot/eye coordination, and stereoscopic depth perception. Impairment of these abilities may limit the performance of surgical skills, and interfere with the effective use of essential ophthalmic instruments, such as the indirect ophthalmoscope and the operating microscope.

As well as these technical and manipulative skills, today's ophthalmologist requires a range of humanistic, professional and managerial skills in order to fulfil community expectations and to deliver excellence in ophthalmological care. Communication skills - essential in the conduct of effective relationships with patients and their families, medical practitioners and other health professionals - include empathy, patience, collaboration, and a respect for patients' rights.

The ophthalmologist is also a decision-maker in daily practice issues, and an advocate in health promotion. To master their domain of professional expertise, ophthalmologists commit to lifelong learning, and demonstrate scholarship in appraising health-care knowledge and facilitating the education of students, patients and others in the community. Finally, in personal and interpersonal professional behaviours, the ophthalmologist should be self-aware, ethically responsible, and accountable.