Georgetown University Hospital Program

The MedStar Georgetown University Hospital/Washington Hospital Center Ophthalmology Residency Program provides an extensive and immersive training opportunity for those seeking to specialize in ophthalmology. Under the leadership of Jay M. Lustbader, MD, and Program Director Reena A. Garg, MD, the program emphasizes practical experience, research, and a comprehensive curriculum.

This ACGME-accredited, four-year integrated program arose from the merging of two longstanding programs in July 2002, offering residents access to a diverse patient population, a broad spectrum of ocular conditions, and cutting-edge technology. The primary training site, the Washington National Eye Center at MedStar Washington Hospital Center, is among the largest and most complete ophthalmology clinics in the metropolitan Washington, D.C., area.

Residents benefit from rotations across several affiliated sites, including MedStar Georgetown University Hospital, the DC Veterans Affairs Medical Center, Walter Reed National Military Medical Center, MedStar St. Mary’s Hospital, INOVA Fairfax Hospital, and Children's National Medical Center. These rotations ensure a well-rounded education in both general ophthalmology and sub-specialties, under the guidance of a large, dedicated faculty.

The program makes a significant emphasis on both surgical and clinical education, boasting high procedure numbers, in-depth exposure to ophthalmic pathology, and access to modern surgical technology, including phaco wet labs and simulators. Opportunities to participate in research are plentiful, with resources available for both clinical and basic science projects.

As for residency specifics, the program matches six residents per year and uniquely includes the PGY1 internship year, offering a space integrated experience from the start of the program. The diverse educational environment, high volume of patient interactions, and broad surgical exposure are built to prepare residents for success in both fellowship placements and their future ophthalmology practice.

The application requirements and details for interested candidates, including the need for registration with the Ophthalmology Matching Program and the timeline for applications and interviews, are clearly outlined. Additionally, the program hosts virtual sessions to give applicants a comprehensive understanding of what the residency entails.

For residents, the program includes a well-structured curriculum that encompasses all aspects of ophthalmic medical knowledge, patient care, professionalism, system-based practice, practice-based learning and improvement, and interpersonal and communication skills. This robust training ensures residents are not only clinically and surgically proficient but also equipped with the skills necessary for lifelong learning and leadership in the field.

Moreover, the program underscores the importance of well-being through its Wellness Curriculum, offering a multifaceted support system throughout the strenuous years of residency training. It also highlights a commitment to diversity and inclusiveness, offering scholarships for underrepresented medical students to experience rotations within their system.

Overall, the MedStar Georgetown University Hospital/Washington Hospital Center Ophthalmology Residency is designed to produce highly skilled, ethical, and professionally competent ophthalmologists, ready to excel in both academic and clinical settings, underpinned by a high pass rate in board examinations and success in securing top fellowships or preferred practice positions post-graduation.