Reshaping ophthalmology training after COVID-19 pandemic
Mariantonia Ferrara1, Vito Romano2,3, David H Steel4,5
1Newcastle Eye Centre, Royal Victoria Infirmary, Newcastle upon Tyne, UK. mariantonia.ferrara@gmail.com.
Eye (London, England)
|July 3, 2020
Summary
The COVID-19 pandemic severely impacted ophthalmology training, reducing clinical and surgical activities. Trainees advocate for integrating web-based teaching and simulators for future training continuity.
Area of Science:
- Ophthalmology
- Medical Education
- Public Health
Background:
- The COVID-19 pandemic significantly disrupted practical training and didactic teaching for residents and fellows.
- Ophthalmology training faced unprecedented challenges impacting hands-on experience and learning.
- The pandemic necessitated rapid adaptation in medical education methodologies.
Purpose of the Study:
- To assess the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on ophthalmology trainees' education.
- To gather trainee perspectives on experienced changes and new training opportunities.
- To propose long-term modifications for ophthalmology training programs.
Main Methods:
- An international online survey was distributed to ophthalmology trainees.
- Descriptive statistics were employed to analyze the collected data.
- Data from 504 respondents across 32 countries were analyzed.
Main Results:
- Most trainees (55.2%) described the pandemic's current impact as "severe," with optimistic future outlooks.
- A significant decrease in clinical (76.4%) and surgical (74.6%) activities was reported.
- Web-based teaching (67.7% attendance) and simulation-based practice (86.9%) were highly valued.
Conclusions:
- The study highlights the critical need to integrate technology-based tools into ophthalmology training.
- Web-based teaching, virtual simulators, and telementoring are essential for training continuity and effectiveness.
- These tools can ensure resilience in ophthalmology education against future health crises.
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