International Observership in Vitreo-Retinal Disease
International Observership in Vitreo-Retinal Disease
Department of Ophthalmology and Visual Sciences
Washington University in St Louis
St. Louis, Missouri USA
We are pleased to announce the start of our observership program in the medical and surgical management of diseases of the vitreous, retina and choroid. This program is designed for international ophthalmologists who desire additional training in the management of posterior segment eye diseases.
Washington University and Barnes-Jewish Hospital
Our specialists are full-time Washington University academic physicians, who practice at Barnes-Jewish Hospital and St. Louis Children’s Hospital, which are both tertiary care and Level I trauma centers. The primary clinic is located in the main medical center. We also have clinics in suburban St. Louis (West County, South County).
Our Vitreo-Retinal Specialists:
The Vitreo-Retinal Service:
In the clinic we evaluate and treat the entire spectrum of vitreo-retinal disorders, that range from common disorders such as Age Related Macular Degeneration, Diabetic Retinopathy and Retinal Detachment to rare disorders such as ocular inflammatory and neoplastic diseases. The Department has an active trauma service and we are often involved in the repair of complex ocular injuries.
Program Goals
The goal of the International Observership is to expose and familiarize the visiting international ophthalmologist with our approach to the management of a wide variety of vitreo-retinal disorders. This program is an observership. Regulations prevent the visiting doctor from providing direct patient contact or care. However, the observer will shadow one or more of our specialists both in the clinic and operating room. You will see how we evaluate patients prior to surgery. You will not scrub during surgery, but instead will be in the operating room, with the ability to view surgical techniques on viewing screens.
We cannot predict what surgical cases will be performed during your visit, as the types of procedures are different each week.
We feel a one-month observership is most ideal, allowing the visitor to see a variety of disorders. Shorter or longer visits can be considered.
The visitor will receive a certificate at the completion of their observership.
International Observer Requirements
You should have completed an Ophthalmology training program and have a strong interest in vitreo-retinal disease.
The observer needs to be fluent in English: able to speak, read and understand the language.
We are not able to provide any financial assistance. The observer will be responsible for all expenses, including transportation from their country, transportation in St Louis (between offices), lodging, and meals.
You should obtain and provide verification of visitor health insurance covering the duration of your visit to the United States.
You must have a valid passport and obtain the appropriate visa prior to the visit. On request, we will provide a letter of invitation.
You must complete the entire application packet, and provide a current full-face photograph, curriculum vitae (CV), and copy of your passport. The application and proposed dates of the observership must be approved by the Department of Ophthalmology prior to scheduling your visit.
Thank you for considering our program!
Contact and application information:
Kevin Ko, MBA, MSHS
Executive Director
John F. Hardesty, MD Department of Ophthalmology & Visual Sciences
Washington University in St. Louis
Campus Box 8096
660 South Euclid Ave
St. Louis, MO 63110
Email: kosung@wustl.edu