Ophthalmology education in pediatric residency training programs

Abstract

Purpose: To evaluate the status of ophthalmology education in pediatric residency programs in the United States.

Methods: A mail survey was sent to 187 directors of pediatric residency programs in the United States, which included questions about current ophthalmology education, desire for additional programs, reasons for dissatisfaction, and types of education desired.

Results: Of a total of 187 surveys mailed, 137 (73%) were returned. Pediatric ophthalmology is part of the curriculum at 72% of pediatric residency programs and not included at 28%. Program directors were satisfied with pediatric ophthalmology education at 76% of the residency programs and not satisfied at 24%. A formal program in ophthalmology was desired by 88% of directors. Reasons for dissatisfaction with ophthalmic education included lack of time during the pediatric residency and lack of ophthalmologists available for teaching. Desired educational programs included didactic lectures by pediatric ophthalmologists, a CD-ROM or web-based program, and rotations through pediatric ophthalmology clinics.

Conclusions: Most pediatric residency program directors want pediatric ophthalmology as part of their formal curricula, but one-fourth of programs are currently either lacking formal ophthalmic education or their directors are dissatisfied with their ophthalmic curricula. Pediatric ophthalmology training programs should be developed to assist those residency programs that are not satisfied with their ophthalmic education. Ophthalmologists are encouraged to participate in these efforts.