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Higher Specialist Training in Surgical Ophthalmology

Overview

The national Specialist Training Programme in Surgical Ophthalmology is seven years in duration. The curriculum is competence-based and consists of three years basic training (BST1, BST2 & BST3) and four years higher training (HST4, HST5, HST6, HST7). 

The purpose of the Higher Specialist Training Programme in Surgical Ophthalmology is to provide in-depth surgical training so as to equip doctors with skills both in cataract surgery as well as in the subspecialties of anterior segment (corneal transplant), glaucoma (trabeculectomy), strabismus (squint surgery), orbit (enucleations), vitreo-retinal (retinal detachment repair), nasolacrimal and oculoplastic surgery. HST trainees, irrespective of preference and future career choice, must undertake training in all subspecialties to successfully complete their training.

On successful completion of the Basic Specialist Training in Surgical Ophthalmology (BST), requires passing the MRCSI Ophth exam, trainees can compete to enter the Higher Specialist Training in Surgical Ophthalmology (HST) programme provided they meet the selection criteria. 

Progression is based on performance in basic training and by competitive interview held centrally in collaboration with the RCSI. Minor adjustments (5-7% of total score) may be made to the scorecard as required during each selection process.

After successful completion of the 3 years of Basic Specialist Training in Surgical Ophthalmology, trainees can compete to enter the Higher Specialist Training program provided they meet the selection criteria. Progression is based on performance in Basic Specialist Training and by competitive interview held centrally in conjunction with the RCSI.

Minor adjustments (5-7% of total score)  may be made to the scorecard as required during each selection process.

 

There are 10 sub-specialties in ophthalmic surgery and the training programme covers all 10.

  1. Cataract and Refractive Surgery
  2. Paediatric Ophthalmology and Strabismus
  3. Corneal and External Diseases
  4. Glaucoma
  5. Vitreoretinal surgery, medical retina and ocular oncology
  6. Neuro-ophthalmology
  7. Oculoplastics and Orbital / lacrimal disorders
  8. ICL Surgery
  9. Lens Replacement Refractive Surgery
  10. Keratoconus

*Emergency Ophthalmology is embedded in the learning outcomes of the 7 different specialties listed above.

Download the curriculum (PDF Document)

 

The medical workforce is changing and, over recent years, numerous reports have pointed to the importance of providing flexible working arrangements for doctors. The HSE National Flexible Training Scheme for Specialist Trainees is a national scheme managed and funded by NDTP for supernumerary posts. The scheme facilitates doctors to continue their training in a flexible manner for a set period of time.

For further information and to complete an application, please visit HSE National Flexible Training Scheme Guide which sets out details of the Scheme and provides information for trainees, training bodies and employers about the programme.

Applications for the scheme are open from 2nd September to 8th November 2024. 

 

Financial Supports

There are currently three schemes in operation which provide financial supports to NCHD's and Consultants, funded by the NDTP.

Details of the schemes can be found on the HSE website .

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