The Ophthalmology Residency Program at Howard University Hospital (HUH) is committed to delivering exceptional training and education in the field of ophthalmology. Established in 1946, the program has evolved to offer a comprehensive and structured residency experience tailored for residents seeking both general and subspecialty ophthalmic training.
Program Overview
The residency program provides exposure to all clinical sub-specialties of ophthalmology, allowing residents to build a robust clinical foundation essential for future practice. The program is designed not only to equip residents for general practice but also to prepare them for advanced subspecialty fellowship training. The curriculum includes rotations in a variety of settings, including a private practice, academic environments, and VA hospital systems, thus enhancing the learning experience by exposing residents to diverse patient populations and pathologies 1.
Curriculum and Rotations
Starting from July 2021, the residency program has implemented an integrated intern year (PGY-1) to provide a broad foundational experience in medicine. This year includes rotations in outpatient clinics, inpatient wards, the operating room, and the emergency room. Residents will spend three months dedicated to ophthalmology, assisting with minor procedures and laser treatments while building relationships with faculty for mentoring and research opportunities 1.
The residency curriculum follows a structured rotation system throughout the four years:
- PGY-1: Integrated rotations focusing on foundational medical skills with time dedicated to ophthalmology at HUH.
- PGY-2: Includes a four-week introductory course to ophthalmology with exposure to subspecialties like cornea, retina, and glaucoma.
- PGY-3: Residents gain substantial surgical experience performing cataract operations and managing complex cases across various specialties.
- PGY-4: Advanced surgical training focusing on cataracts, anterior segment surgeries, and additional leadership responsibilities.
This structured yet flexible design ensures residents achieve competence and confidence in both clinical and surgical settings as they progress through the program 1.
Training Sites
The program collaborates with several institutions, including:
- Howard University Hospital (HUH)
- DC Veterans Affairs Medical Center (DC VAMC)
- Orlando VA Hospital in Florida
- Prevention of Blindness Society
- Metropolitan Pediatric Ophthalmology
- Holy Cross Hospital
This network of sites allows for a diverse training experience, offering residents exposure to various clinical environments and patient demographics. At HUH, residents participate in general and subspecialty clinics, while at the VAMC residents will gain direct experience with surgical procedures under seasoned faculty supervision 1.
Research Opportunities
Residents are encouraged to participate in research projects throughout their training. The program fosters an academic environment, allowing residents to engage in scholarly activities and present findings at local and national conferences. Residents typically exhibit strong representation at important conferences such as the National Medical Association (NMA), Women in Ophthalmology (WIO), and the American Academy of Ophthalmology (AAO) 1.
Benefits and Support
Financial and professional support is provided to residents, including a competitive salary structure and various allowances for educational materials, conferences, and licensing costs. Benefits include health and dental insurance, a disability plan, life insurance, and malpractice coverage 3. The program emphasizes wellness and offers resources for mental health support, enabling residents to maintain work-life balance during their training years.
Visa Sponsorship and Application Requirements
The program supports visa sponsorship for qualified international applicants, typically offering support for J-1 and H-1B visa categories. The residency program is welcoming to international medical graduates (IMGs) and osteopathic medical graduates (DOs), fostering a diverse residency class. Additionally, applicants are encouraged to have a strong academic record with no more than one failed Step examination to ensure a highly competitive selection process.5.
Competitiveness and Diversity
This residency program is known to be competitive, with a special effort to attract applicants from under-represented minority backgrounds in medicine. The commitment to diversity and inclusion is a cornerstone of the program, aiming to address disparities in healthcare and provide exceptional eye care to all communities 6.
In summary, the Howard University Ophthalmology Residency Program presents a committed framework for training the future leaders in ophthalmology, prioritizing outstanding patient care, comprehensive education, and impactful research. It integrates diverse clinical experiences that are essential for any physician entering the field.
Website
Director
Leslie S Jones, MDAssociate Professor and Chair Appointed Since January 2023Coordinator
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Washington, DC
Housing - Rental Prices
Crime - All Violent Offences
Living in Washington, DC
- Crime Rate and Safety: Washington, DC has a mix of neighborhoods with varying levels of safety. While some areas are considered safe, others may have higher crime rates. It's essential to research specific neighborhoods before choosing where to live.
- Fun Activities: Washington, DC is rich in culture and history. Residents can enjoy visiting museums, exploring national monuments, attending events on the National Mall, and trying different cuisines in the city's diverse restaurants.
- Climate: Washington, DC experiences four distinct seasons. Summers are hot and humid, while winters can be cold with occasional snowfall. Spring and fall offer pleasant weather, making them popular seasons for outdoor activities.
- Races and Population: Washington, DC is a diverse city with a significant African American population. Residents can find communities representing various racial and ethnic backgrounds.
- Education: Washington, DC is home to several universities and colleges, providing opportunities for further education and research. Residents can access a range of educational resources and cultural institutions.
- Cost of Living: Washington, DC has a relatively high cost of living, especially in terms of housing. Rent and property prices can be expensive, but residents may find varying costs in different neighborhoods.
- Proximity to Bigger Cities: Nearby bigger cities include Baltimore, Maryland, and Philadelphia, Pennsylvania. Baltimore is approximately 45 miles away from Washington, DC, while Philadelphia is around 140 miles away. These cities offer their own unique attractions, nightlife, and cultural experiences.
- Pros and Cons: Pros of living in Washington, DC include access to national landmarks, cultural events, and diverse communities. However, cons may include the higher cost of living, traffic congestion, and potential safety concerns in certain areas.
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