University of Tennessee Program

The University of Tennessee Health Science Center offers a well-established Ophthalmology Residency Program based at the Hamilton Eye Institute. The program has been directing the integrated residency since 1966. The program is fully accredited for three years of training with a total of fifteen residents, with five residents per year. Residents receive training primarily at affiliated institutions including the Veterans Affairs Medical Center (VAMC), Regional One Health, Le Bonheur Children's Hospital, and Methodist University Hospital. Additional clinical responsibilities may include rotations at St. Jude Children's Research Hospital and the University of Tennessee Medical Group clinics.

The curriculum at the University of Tennessee Ophthalmology Residency Program focuses on comprehensive ophthalmology training, subspecialty practice, and academic medicine. Residents have access to hands-on training with biological materials in the Skills Transfer Center, including the EyeSi surgical simulator. There is a strong emphasis on one-on-one instruction by renowned faculty members and exposure to visiting educators.

The application process for this program involves participation in the Ophthalmology Matching Program (OMP). Applicants must submit their applications through the Central Application Service of the OMP and interviews are by invitation only. Prior to entry into the residency program, one year of PGY-1 approved training is required. The program encourages applicants to pursue PGY-1 positions in programs emphasizing primary patient care. Approximately 48 applicants are invited for interviews each year. The application deadline for the 2023 cycle is October 1, 2023, with interview dates scheduled for November 10 and December 1, 2023, which will be conducted virtually.

The program offers a structured residency clinical training schedule starting each July with an introductory course to ophthalmology. Residents will rotate through different subspecialties and gain surgical experience under the supervision of experienced faculty members. They participate in patient care at various affiliated hospitals and clinics, with increasing responsibilities as they progress through the program.

Throughout the training, residents are encouraged to engage in research projects within the Department of Ophthalmology. The Center for Vision Research supports research in vision and ophthalmology, with faculty involved in both basic science and clinical research endeavors. Residents showcase their research projects at the Annual Alumni and Residents Day.

The University of Tennessee Ophthalmology Residency Program offers a comprehensive training experience for individuals pursuing careers in ophthalmology. Residents receive hands-on training, interact with expert faculty, and have opportunities for research and academic pursuits.