• Ophthalmologist Job Description

    An ophthalmologist is a medical doctor who specializes in the diagnoses and treatment of eye diseases and conditions. Ophthalmologists diagnose and treat all eye conditions, prescribing medicines, contact lenses or glasses, and performing surgeries where necessary. The eye diseases and conditions they manage include cataracts, glaucoma, diabetic eye disease, eye injuries, double vision, unusual red eye, and short-sightedness.

    An ophthalmologist should be quick-thinking, well organized, self-motivated and disciplined, and have the ability to work well under pressure and manage time efficiently to provide medical care in a timely, careful and effective manner. They should also be able to make good judgments and act in the best interest of their patients.

  • What does a Ophthalmologist do?

    Ophthalmologists may do some or all of the following:

    • liaise with other medical professionals such as nurses, opticians and other doctors
    • examine the eyes to diagnose eye diseases and vision disorders
    • diagnose eye problems and prescribe medicines, contact lenses or glasses
    • perform eye surgeries to treat eye problems such as glaucoma and cataracts
    • carry out scientific research to improve the knowledge of eye and vision care
    • teach and supervise medical students
  • Where does a Ophthalmologist work?
  • Working Conditions

    Ophthalmologists usually work normal office hours. They work in medical offices, hospitals, clinics and private practices.

  • What is Required to Become a Ophthalmologist?

    Ophthalmology is a specialty field in medicine. You will be required to be a licensed medical doctor, before advancing to become an ophthalmologist.

    To become an ophthalmologist, It will take anywhere from 9-10 years of schooling, as you will need to obtain a bachelor’s degree from a medical school, complete an internship program, and then complete a residency program of up to 4 years in ophthalmology.

  • Modules
  • Specializations
  • Knowledge, Skills and Attributes

    Ophthalmologists need to have:

    • patience
    • empathy
    • precision
    • confidence
    • diligence and resilience
    • self-motivation
    • scientific aptitude
    • good memory
    • good eyesight
    • good hand-eye coordination
    • good attention to detail
    • good listening and communication skills
    • good judgment and decision making skills
    • math and computer skills
    • observational skills
    • time management and organizational skills
    • analytical and problem-solving skills
    • surgical skills
    • the ability to work well under pressure
    • the ability to use precision instruments
    • the ability to work well independently and in a team
    • the ability to work in close proximity to patients
    • the ability to maintain focus during delicate procedures
    • the ability to inspire confidence in others
    • knowledge of anatomy and how the human body works
    • knowledge of eye anatomy
    • knowledge of eye diseases and treatments
    • knowledge of general medicine
    • knowledge of medical terminology
    • knowledge of medical ethics and law

References

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