Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai/New York Eye and Ear Infirmary at Mount Sinai Program

The Ophthalmology Residency Program at the New York Eye and Ear Infirmary of Mount Sinai (NYEE) offers a comprehensive three-year ACGME accredited opportunity for trainees to cultivate their skills in a blend of clinical, surgical, and academic ophthalmology. This historic institution has been at the forefront of eye care since its establishment in 1820, emphasizing an exceptional educational experience enriched by its expansive clinical services.

Program Structure and Rotations

The program consists of a rigorous curriculum that encompasses diverse training environments, innovative educational practices, and the advancement of surgical techniques. Residents engage in rotations across multiple facilities such as Mount Sinai Hospital, Elmhurst Hospital, and the James J. Peters VA Medical Center, thereby ensuring a well-rounded exposure to various patient demographics and clinical situations. Every year, ten residents are chosen, leading to the largest ophthalmology residency training program in the United States. This joint program has established a blended approach that enhances clinical exposure and professional development, enabling residents to master all key areas of ophthalmic sub-specialties, including but not limited to cornea, retina, oculoplastics, and glaucoma 1.

Curriculum and Educational Framework

The residency program is structured to provide a robust educational foundation that combines clinical training with extensive didactic learning. Weekly grand rounds, specialty-focused lectures, and interactive case discussions enrich the learning experience for residents. Clinical responsibilities increase progressively, allowing junior residents to gain significant hands-on experience that prepares them to take on more complex cases as they advance through the program. Residents commonly participate in specialized training sessions and meetings, including surgical conferences and educational events endorsed by the American Academy of Ophthalmology 2.

Training Sites

1. New York Eye and Ear Infirmary: As one of the leading facilities for treating ocular diseases, NYEE offers a substantial surgical case volume and an array of clinical scenarios that aid in diverse learning experiences.
2. The Mount Sinai Hospital: Providing care in a tertiary-care setting, it gives exposure to complex clinical cases and access to top-tier research and healthcare practices.
3. James Peters Veterans Administration Medical Center: This facility focuses on veteran care, offering essential insights into the management of veterans' ocular health issues.
4. Elmhurst Hospital: Serving a densely populated community, this hospital addresses assorted acute and chronic ocular conditions, allowing residents to build a profound understanding of healthcare disparities 3.

Surgical Training and Clinical Responsibility

Residents are expected to gain proficiency in a full range of ophthalmic surgeries during their training. This includes, but is not limited to, cataract surgeries, strabismus corrections, and ocular trauma management. The Jorge N. Buxton MD Microsurgical Education Center allows residents 24/7 access to practice surgical techniques, ensuring adequate preparation and competency before performing surgeries on patients. Additionally, the curriculum is designed to promote collaborative learning through multidisciplinary team approaches, ensuring comprehensive patient care 4.

Research Opportunities

The residency program actively encourages participation in research, offering dedicated time for investigation and the pursuit of academic interests. Residents are provided the potential for funding to showcase their work at national conferences, enhancing both their educational experience and professional networking. Research is not just encouraged; it is expected, allowing trainees the ability to contribute meaningfully to the field of ophthalmology 5.

Residency Salary and Benefits

Residents are compensated with competitive salaries that reflect the cost of living in New York City. As of July 2024, the pay structure begins at approximately $81,377 for first-year residents and increases with each postgraduate year. Additional benefits include a meal stipend, educational allowances, comprehensive health benefits, and access to various professional development opportunities. Vacation allowances and resident housing options are available to support well-being and work-life balance 6.

Visa Support and Competitiveness

The program is open to supporting International Medical Graduates (IMGs) and foreign medical students through J-1 visas, facilitating participation in residency training for qualified individuals. The residency program is known for its competitiveness, accepting a diverse group of candidates, including those from DO backgrounds, with an inclusive approach to applicants who meet the stringent educational standards mandated by the Medical Board 7.

Eligibility Requirements

Potential candidates must have graduated from an accredited medical school or fulfilled the requirements for ECFMG certification. Successful completion of USMLE Step 1 is also mandatory, while Steps 2 and 3 must be concluded prior to the initiation of the residency. A foundational internship in Internal Medicine or an equivalent program is highly regarded, underpinning the requirement for a solid clinical base prior to entering the Ophthalmology program 8.

The program strives to develop not only skilled ophthalmologists but also future leaders in the field, making it an exciting opportunity for aspiring ophthalmology residents.