Ophthalmology and Visual Sciences - Residency - Application Process - New York City - Montefiore Medical Center
First Year
The emphasis of first year is to build basic ophthalmologic examination skills and a fluency in identifying and treating basic ophthalmologic conditions. The first two weeks of residency are solely dedicated to didactics and skills workshops to transition incoming residents. The majority of first year is spent in general clinic at Montefiore and Jacobi, and patients are always staffed with a dedicated attending physician. Residents rotating on the cornea service during their first year observe and assist high volume surgery at the Westchester Square Ophthalmology Ambulatory Surgery Center. A night float and "buddy-call" system has been implemented to limit resident fatigue and allow for proper supervision for consultations. Low Vision rotations at the Lighthouse in Manhattan allow for indispensable exposure to these specialized services.
Second Year
Second year residents advance their training in ophthalmologic subspecialties with emphasis on Cornea, Glaucoma, Retina, Pediatrics/Strabismus, Neuro-Ophthalmology and Oculoplastics. The second year residents become proficient and independent at retinal lasers, intravitreal injections and glaucoma lasers. Depending on clinic location, second years also field daytime consultations for their respective hospital. Second year residents are offered elective subspecialty rotations throughout the year.
Third Year
Third year is dedicated to surgical training and our seniors spend a mix of their time between specialized clinics to book cases, and in the operating room. Surgical schedulers and perioperative staff are dedicated to the residents to allow for optimal teaching and efficiency, and Montefiore residents enjoy some of the highest surgical volumes in the region. Additional duties include acting as the senior resident, and overseeing first-year education and clinical workflows under the supervision of a dedicated faculty attending. Third year residents take back-up call on weekdays and weekends.