Basic Training in Surgical Ophthalmology

Entry to the programme is by annual competitive interview run by the Irish College of Ophthalmologists. Available posts are advertised via this website in November/December of each year.

To apply for the Basic Training Programme a trainee needs to be registered with the Medical Council of Ireland and eligible for trainee specialist registration.

Successful candidates are appointed to the training programme for a three year period. Trainees rotate around the clinical training sites and contracts of employment are issued by the relevant hospitals.

Entry on to the Programme is by competitive interview held at the Irish College of Ophthalmologists. Consideration is given to an honours medical degree, prizes /medals (see below) achieved during undergraduate years, postgraduate degrees and presentations, research and /or publications. Personal and professional attributes such as, ability to work as a team, communications skills and personal motivation are also important.

Any interested graduate can contact Andrea Farrell, Training and Education Support Administrator at andrea.farrell@eyedoctors.ie who can put you in touch with the Dean of Postgraduate Education or other Eye Doctors working throughout the country, whose team, either junior or senior, would be happy to talk to you about a career in Ophthalmology.

• Applicant Guide ICO NTP Basic Specialist Training in Ophthalmology
• Overview of online BST application form 2024
• Selection Score Sheet for Surgical Ophthalmology
• ICO Referee Nominations Form
• Checklist
• Eligibility for trainee specialist division
• Medical Council notice on eligibility for trainee specialist division 
• English Language requirement
• Allocation of places
• Frequently Asked Questions

Specialist Training Programmes in Ophthalmology

Ophthalmology Application Scorecard

Basic Training in Surgical Ophthalmology

The purpose of the foundation years of surgical ophthalmology training is to provide a broad based initial training in ophthalmology with attainment of knowledge skills and professional behaviours relevant to the practice of ophthalmology in any specialist discipline. Following successful completion of Basic Training in Surgical Ophthalmology (requires passing the MRCSI exam) and depending on career preference and ability, candidates can compete to enter Higher Specialist Training in Surgical Ophthalmology.

Basic Training is based on a clearly defined curriculum which sets out:

• Training structure and pathway
• Educational content
• Assessment and appraisal processes
• Examination format and regulations
• Counselling and support arrangements
• Core Training in Ophthalmology introduces trainees to the specialty of ophthalmology and ophthalmic surgery and to the care and management of the ophthalmic patient;
• Principles of assessment and investigation of the surgical patient (elective / emergency)
• Pre-operative preparation, peri-operative management and postoperative care of the surgical patient.
• Principles of operative surgery and theatre etiquette.
• Surgical and multidisciplinary team working
• Professional behaviour/ethical practice
• Pattern of life long learning

There are clearly defined competencies which must be achieved in order to progress to the next phase of training. This curriculum defines the principles and practice of Basic Training.

Download the curriculum (PDF Document)

ICO Specialist Training in Basic Surgical Ophthalmology Curriculum Appendix C V2022

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. The HSE National Flexible Training Scheme Guide sets out details of the National Flexible Training Scheme and provides information for trainees, training bodies and employers about the programme.

If you wish to apply to the HSE National Flexible Training Scheme please complete and submit the application form. Applications for the scheme in 2024 will open on September 11th to November 10th 2023.

Financial Supports