Ophthalmologist
Ophthalmologists are medical doctors who specialize in all aspects of eye health. They provide primary eye care services including eye exams and prescribe medications and perform surgical procedures, such as laser surgery and lens replacement. Using both surgical and non-surgical techniques, ophthalmologists diagnose and manage eye diseases, conditions, and disorders, and treat and repair eye injuries.
An Exciting Field of Work
In general, Ophthalmologists:
- Diagnose and treat diseases and injuries of eyes
- Examine patients for symptoms indicative of organic or congenital eye disorders, and determine nature and extent of the injury or disorder
- Perform various tests to determine vision loss
- Prescribe and administer medications.
- Perform eye surgery, if indicated
- Direct remedial activities to aid in regaining vision or to use remaining sight by writing prescriptions for corrective glasses, and instructing patient in eye exercises
Personal Characteristics / Skills
- Excellent communication and interpersonal skills
- Emotional strength and maturity
- Good depth perception, manual dexterity and color vision
- A compassionate and caring manner
- Patience, respect and empathy
- Excellent listening skills and ability to instill confidence
- Capacity and eagerness to learn new skills and information
Education and Training
A Bachelor of Science and a Medical Doctor (MD) degree followed by an Ophthalmology residency program is required.
Education program offered in New Brunswick
Medical Education programs are offered in New Brunswick by the following educational institutions:
- Dalhousie Medicine New Brunswick (DMNB) – English program
- Centre de formation médicale du Nouveau-Brunswick – French program
Length of Study / Training
12.0 - 13.0 years
Licence and certification
To practice in New Brunswick, Ophthalmologists must be licensed with the College of Physicians and Surgeons of New Brunswick.
Helpful High School Courses
- Math
- Biology
- Physics
- Chemistry
Employment and Common Working Conditions
Ophthalmologists work in a variety of settings such as:
- Private clinics or group practices
- Hospitals
- Universities and research facilities
Most Ophthalmologists split their time between the office, seeing patients and performing various non-surgical treatments, and the operating room. They are also sometimes on-call for emergencies at the hospital. Since they are dealing with patients who may be in jeopardy of losing their vision, this can be highly stressful and emotional for both the Ophthalmologist and patient.
Employment Prospects - GOOD
The demand for Ophthalmologists should continue to grow due to the vision care needs of a growing and aging population.