Employment situation of young ophthalmologists in Spain

Ophthalmology in Spain has a high proportion of young specialists. This study describes the professional and training situation after residency, as well as young ophthalmologists' perceptions of the Spanish Society of Ophthalmology (SEO).

A cross-sectional descriptive study was conducted using an online survey of residents and attendings with ≤4 years of experience. Demographic, professional, training data, and opinions about the SEO were collected.

A total of 81 ophthalmologists participated. Among attendings, 88.6% found immediate employment, mostly through temporary and short-term contracts; 27.3% experienced periods of unemployment. The 54.5% pursued subspecialization, mainly in retina and oculoplastics. Nearly half work exclusively in the public sector (47.7%), while 45.5% combine public and private practice. Satisfaction with residency training was high (70.4%) but decreased post-residency (56.9%). Fewer than half perceived their job situation as stable, and 38.6% had considered emigration. Main demands included higher salaries, reduced bureaucratic workload, and more public employment opportunities. SEO membership was low, with limited perceived benefits. Training in contact lenses was insufficient, while interest in artificial intelligence was high.

Young ophthalmologists face professional instability after residency, although they highly value their residency training. Measures to enhance job stability, improve deficient training areas, and strengthen the SEO's role in continuous education and professional advocacy are needed.