Ophthalmology

We will strive to achieve excellence in clinical and surgical ophthalmic training, research activities and education in the field of ophthalmology.

The general objectives of the program are to fulfil the six ACGME-I competencies as below:
1. Medical Knowledge
· Demonstrates basic science and up-to-date clinical knowledge.
Ø Is able to identify & discuss path physiology of disease processes; can intelligently discuss evaluation, diagnosis & treatment of various ophthalmic disorders; understands rationale for varied approaches to clinical problems; seeks new information by searching the literature& asking questions; cites recent literature when appropriate; asks knowledgeable & well-informed questions.
· Uses knowledge & analytical thinking to address clinical questions.
Ø Uses effective problem-solving techniques; demonstrates sound clinical judgment; applies analytical approach to clinical situations.
2. Patient Care
· Demonstrates comprehensive assessment and management.
Ø Obtains complete & accurate patient histories; performs thorough & appropriate ophthalmic exams; orders diagnostic tests; integrates information meaningfully & coherently; generates appropriate differential diagnosis.
· Assesses problems and provides the ongoing management of patients.
Ø Develops appropriate evaluation & treatment plan for patients; anticipates patient needs; effectively identifies & manages clinical problems; writes clear & appropriate plans; and arranges follow -up visits.
· Makes informed diagnostic and therapeutic decisions.
Ø Synthesizes evidence in making a diagnosis and subsequent therapeutic decisions; utilizes subspecialty consultation appropriately; identifies available resources to support decision; works collaboratively with consultants to ensure timely diagnostic/therapeutic interventions.
· Responds appropriately to the emergency clinical problems.
Ø Quickly responds to changing clinical situations; initiates appropriate interventions; utilizes consultants to ensure appropriate clinical response.
· Demonstrates procedural skills appropriate to level of training.
Ø Demontrates appropriate manual technique and dexterity in performing procedures; shows appropriate confidence and proficiency with all technical aspects of the procedure; in performing a procedure, demonstrates awareness of the indications, contraindications and complications of the procedure
2. Practice-Based Learning & Improvement (PBLI)
· Understands concepts of Quality Improvement and integrates these into practice.
Ø Compares own outcomes to accepted guidelines & national or peer data; reflects on critical incidents to identify strengths & weaknesses; monitors effects of practice changes& improvements.
· Critically evaluates scientific literature and applies to clinical practice.
Ø Determines how learning deficits or weaknesses can be addressed; seeks feedback; does extra reading & practice when needed; seeks information from the literature; critically appraises research evidence or applicability to patient care; uses information technology (IT) resources to aid learning.
Ø Implements improvement activities Changes practice patterns & other behaviors in response to feedback; applies new skills or knowledge to patient care; tailors research evidence to care of individual patients; uses IT to improve patient care.
· Facilitates the learning of others.
Ø Explains clinical reasoning & procedures to colleagues; provides clinically useful information in response to learner questions; directs learners to useful resources.
3. Interpersonal & Communication Skills
· Communicates effectively with patients and their families.
Ø Allows patient to tell his/her own story; listens attentively; uses non-technical language when explaining & counseling; involves patient or family in decision-making; encourages questions & checks for understanding; demonstrates ability to counsel patient and obtain informed consent.
· Communicates effectively with other healthcare professionals.
Ø Maintains complete & legible medical records; writes clear & concise consultation reports & referral letters; makes organized & concise presentations of patient information; gives clear & well-prepared presentations.
· Works effectively with other members of the healthcare team.
Ø Demonstrates courtesy to and consideration of consultants, therapists, & other team members; invites others to share their knowledge & opinions; makes requests not demands; negotiates & compromises when disagreements occur; handles conflict constructively
4. Professionalism
· Demonstrates integrity and ethical behavior; Accepts responsibility and follows through on tasks.
Ø Takes responsibility for actions willingly; admits mistakes; puts patient needs above own interests; recognizes & addresses ethical dilemmas & conflicts of interest; maintains patient confidentiality; is industrious & dependable; completes tasks carefully & thoroughly; responds to requests in a helpful & prompt manner.
· Practices within the scope of his/her abilities.
Ø Recognizes limits of his/her abilities; asks for help when needed; refers patients when appropriate; exercises authority accorded by position and /or experience.
· Demonstrates care and concern for patients and their families regardless of age, gender, ethnicity or sexual orientation; responds to each patient’s unique characteristics and needs.
Ø Responds appropriately to patient & family emotions; establishes rapport; provides reassurance; is respectful & considerate; does not rush; is sensitive to issues related to each patient’s culture, age, gender & disabilities; provides equitable care regardless of patient culture or socioeconomic status
5. Systems-based Practice (SBP)
· Provides cost-conscious effective medical care.
Ø Effective medical care Considers costs and benefits of tests & treatments; adheres to established patient care pathways; does not order unnecessary tests.
· Works to promote patient safety. Ø Identifies system causes of medical error; anticipates & responds to patient care problems; adheres to protocols that ensure patient safety; accepts input from the patient care team.
· Coordinates care with other healthcare providers.
Ø Obtains consultation when needed; communicates with other providers; resolves differences in treatment plans; reconciles contradictory advice; Assures patient awareness of available care options; makes appropriate referrals; assists with arrangements & follow-up to ensure appropriate care.