For a medical student, becoming an ophthalmologist in India could be rewarding. However, getting admission in medical school to pursue MD in ophthalmology isn’t enough. Passion and Money, two major decision-making factors are responsible too. Medical education can’t be completed without the presence of these two factors.

So, if a medical student is stuck in making career choices, pursuing an ophthalmology MD/MS could be a good decision! But the medical student needs to be passionate enough and must acknowledge the medical college expenses. In this blog, you’d get to read about ‘How MD Ophthalmology is a good career option?’ But making it best is in your hands! Let’s continue to understand aspects making an ophthalmology course preferable.

Introduction: Thinking About Career in Ophthalmology

As a kid, if you’ve had a chance to visit an ophthalmologist, you might have seen them a little more relaxed than other doctors catering to critical patients everyday. There is a wide range of career options to choose from. But, it’s not surprising if you hear ophthalmologists conversing with patients in a light hearted mood. Therefore, it can be said that ophthalmologists follow a holistic approach, are less stressed, and have quality of life. Many believe MD/MS in Ophthalmology is one of the best career options in India. So, before proceeding ahead with MD in Ophthalmology, understand the aspects of Ophthalmology and then you can decide accordingly.

What is MD in Ophthalmology?

In India, MS/MD in Ophthalmology is a postgraduate medical degree specialising in the field of ophthalmology. This is the route to become an eye specialist, with roles and responsibilities of eye care and surgery. It could be a private practice/independent practice, corporate practice, or a government practice. With great training programs, clinical exposure, and good academic career study, it provides job opportunities in wide range of set ups. It can be said that the scope of practice is dynamic!

Definition of MD Ophthalmology

• Doctor of Medicine (MD): This is a postgraduate degree awarded to medical graduates who have completed their MBBS (Bachelor of Medicine and Bachelor of Surgery). Post this, they reach ahead for specialisation in Ophthalmology.
• Ophthalmology: This is the medical specialty that primarily looks after eye care services and treatment. From diagnosis to treatment, and prevention, any condition related to the eyes and visual system is an ophthalmologist’s cup of tea.

Scope and Importance of MD in Ophthalmology

Career in Ophthalmology might sound amazing. But there’s no field that’s a cakewalk. Remember your board exams? In this context, from ophthalmic education to trainings, from residency programs to independent practice, it is all hard work. Yes, there’s a little less relaxation than other fields.

Ophthalmology MD has a great scope in future. From working as Ophthalmologists in hospitals, clinics, or in private practice, there are specialist roles. With cataract surgery, corneal transplantation, retinal surgery, surgical career can be pursued too. As educators or researchers, there are opportunities again. Focusing on public healthcare, community eye health and preventive care also provide a scope in ophthalmology.

Less Stressful Medical Profession

• During a career in ophthalmology, there are less emergencies as compared to other fields.
• So, if you are thinking of a career in ophthalmology because it is a little less ‘critical’ than others, then it could be true.

Digitally Rewarding Career Option

Moreover, thanks to Covid, studies at many places are still being pursued digitally. From ophthalmology online video lectures to theoretical class, the hassle of being physically available is also limited. There are many platforms where appointments and guidance is provided online. So, this could be done digitally up to some extent.

If stuck in the thoughts of a good ophthalmology md online course, the best guidance comes from Dr. N. Venkatesh Prajna’s comprehensive course. Post deciding, start immediately and help people in healing their eyes.

Path to Ophthalmologist Career in India

The MD in Ophthalmology is for three years, post an MBBS degree. Also, students can pursue a Diploma in Ophthalmology (DO) for two years after MBBS.

Curriculum

The program includes comprehensive training in various aspects of eye care, such as:

• Basic and advanced clinical ophthalmology.
• Techniques and procedures of Surgery.
• Ocular diseases’ Management.
• Pediatric ophthalmology.
• Neuro-ophthalmology.
• Community ophthalmology and public health aspects related to eye care.
• Syllabi covering Transplants and Eye Donations

Training

• Working in clinics, hospitals, and performing surgeries under supervision is a part of exhaustive training.

Admission Requirements

• MBBS Degree: MBBS degree from a recognized medical college is a must.
• Entrance Exam: Admission as per national or state-level entrance exams (Eg: NEET-PG)
• Residency and Interviews: Some institutions might also conduct interviews or practical assessments.

Salary After Ophthalmology MD

An ophthalmologist’s salary may be between ₹1.0 Lakhs to ₹30.0 Lakhs per month. The annual salaries on an average could be around ₹13.4 Lakhs. This data is extracted out of 232 latest salaries of Ophthalmologists, as per Ambition Box.

Conclusion

Undoubtedly, it is a great career option. If you choose MS/MD in Ophthalmology, there could be tons of benefits. But it all depends upon your career perspective.