The Temple University Hospital Program in Ophthalmology provides a comprehensive and dynamic training experience that prepares residents for successful careers in ophthalmology. The program focuses on both clinical and surgical excellence, offering residents hands-on experiences in a supportive environment characterized by camaraderie and teamwork among faculty and peers. A distinct feature of the program is its commitment to serving an underserved patient population, allowing residents to encounter diverse clinical challenges and deliver high-quality care, thus fostering both professional growth and personal satisfaction.
Curriculum Overview
The residency curriculum encompasses a broad range of topics and skills essential for modern ophthalmologists. Residents participate in an orientation program that includes a Wills Eye Ophthalmic Orientation Course, preparing them for their clinical duties. Didactic sessions are scheduled weekly, ensuring continuous education alongside clinical practice. Grand rounds occur bi-monthly and are accessible to residents at all sites, promoting collaboration and shared learning.
Journal clubs and conferences further enhance the academic environment, encouraging residents to engage in discussions about recent advancements and share their research findings. The program also supports residents' participation in local, regional, and national conferences, providing financial assistance to attend selected events, maintaining an academic tradition that is vital in the field of ophthalmology.
1Clinical Rotations and Experience
The ophthalmology training includes rotations at three major sites: Temple University Hospital, Wilmington Hospital, and Wilmington Veterans Affairs Medical Center. Residents typically spend their first year, the PGY-1 year, in a joint program with Internal Medicine, focusing on foundational medical training essential for ophthalmology practice. The PGY-2 to PGY-4 years are heavily focused on ophthalmology practice.
Clinical experiences span various subspecialties, such as cornea, retina, glaucoma, and oculoplastics, enabling residents to follow patients longitudinally. The curriculum emphasizes resident-run clinics with dedicated attending supervision, fostering responsibility and continuity of care among residents.
2Surgical Training
The surgical training component of the program is extensive. The program boasts a fully equipped surgical wet lab, accessible 24/7, which enables residents to gain practical experience in a controlled environment. Additionally, substantial opportunities for hands-on surgical experience, including intraoperative training in cataract surgeries and other procedures, are integrated throughout the residency. Each PGY level builds on surgical skills progressively, ensuring residents are well-prepared to perform a variety of procedures by the end of their training.
3Research Opportunities
Research is an integral aspect of the Temple Ophthalmology Residency Program. Residents are encouraged to engage in basic science and clinical research throughout their training. Each resident is required to complete a quality improvement project for graduation and is supported in presenting their research at various conferences, further enhancing their expertise and professional profiles.
4Resident Life and Wellbeing
The residency prides itself on a collegial atmosphere fostering teamwork between residents and faculty. A supportive environment assists residents in navigating the demands of residency training while maintaining a work-life balance. Residents are provided with benefits that include access to essential ophthalmic equipment, medical resources, and financial support for academic endeavors.
5Visa Support and Competitiveness
The Temple Ophthalmology Residency Program is open to International Medical Graduates (IMGs) and is known for being friendly to DO applicants. The program can sponsor visas for residents, allowing them to train in the United States. Applicants should meet certain criteria, such as a maximum of one failed Step exam, and preference will typically be shown to those with timely graduation from medical school.
6Website
Director
Gary F Domeracki, MDProgram Director, Specialty - Cataract Surgery Appointed Since July 2023Coordinator
Program
Program Size
Composition
Quality of Life
First year average hours per week:
55hrsFirst year max cons. hours on duty:
16hrsFirst Year Salary:
$73,008First Year Paid Vacation:
-First Year Paid Sick Leave:
-Training
Fellowship Rate:
-Faculty to Residents Ratio:
1.4XResidents career path:
Admission
Min. Step 2 Score:
-Visa Sponsorship:
-YOG Cutoff:
-Location
Philadelphia, PA
Housing - Rental Prices
Crime - All Violent Offences
Living in Philadelphia, PA:
Philadelphia, PA is a vibrant city with a rich historical background and a diverse cultural scene. Here are some aspects to consider when living in Philadelphia for your medical residency program:
- Crime Rate and Safety: Philadelphia has some high-crime neighborhoods, so it's essential to be aware of your surroundings. However, the city has been improving its safety measures in recent years.
- Fun Activities: Philadelphia offers a wide range of activities, from visiting historical sites like Independence Hall to enjoying the arts and culture in museums and theaters.
- Climate: Philadelphia experiences all four seasons, with hot summers and cold winters. Be prepared for snowfall during the winter months.
- Races and Population: Philadelphia is a diverse city with a mix of racial and ethnic groups, making it a welcoming and inclusive place to live.
- Education: Philadelphia is home to several universities and colleges, offering opportunities for continued education and research.
- Cost of Living: The cost of living in Philadelphia is moderate compared to other major cities on the East Coast. Housing costs vary depending on the neighborhood.
- Proximity to Other Cities: Philadelphia is within driving distance to cities like New York City (around 2 hours) and Washington, D.C. (around 2.5 hours), making it easy to explore other urban centers.
- Pros: Rich history, diverse culture, strong healthcare institutions, vibrant arts scene.
- Cons: Some neighborhoods have higher crime rates, winters can be cold and snowy.
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