Ophthalmologist

JOB

Ophthalmologists specialize in diseases related to eyes and eyesight. Examples of such diseases can be infections, vision problems, cataracts, glaucoma and atrophy or damage to the ocular fundus. An ophthalmologist diagnoses and treats these diseases, performs eye surgery and prescribes medication if needed.
In your job as an ophthalmologist, you are in considerable collaboration with other healthcare professionals. Most work at ophthalmology clinics, often in teams with other ophthalmologists, but ophthalmologists also work in hospitals where operations are performed.

Main tasks

– diagnosis and treatment of eye diseases
– following up diagnosis with chemotherapy or surgery
– optometry and prescription of glasses or contact lenses
– counseling and education
– eye disease research

Competence requirements

Ophthalmologists need to have a great interest in and knowledge of science and biology. Meticulousness is a very important quality, as the work of an ophthalmologist requires great patience and is based on precise work. An ophthalmologist needs to have good interpersonal skills, be capable of disciplined work and be able to work both independently and in teams with others.

Icelandic Ophthalmological Society – Augnlæknafélag Íslands

Study

In order to receive recognition as a specialist in ophthalmology, you must first complete 6–7 years of general medical studies and obtain a general medical license. Then you need specialized studies in eye diseases for 4–6 years. Such studies involve work in the department of ophthalmology under the guidance of experienced ophthalmologists. Along with the vocational training, it is necessary to take theoretical courses and pass exams. An example of this is the EBOD test for European ophthalmologists.

Some ophthalmologists specialize further in one area of ophthalmology, for example in glaucoma, retinas, pediatrics or plastic surgery. Most ophthalmologists, however, are trained to handle all eye problems.

Looking for something different?

Look at other options

Related jobs

Dentist

Physician

Næsta skref is an informational web about job and job related education in Iceland

Administrator
Arnar Þorsteinsson

JOB