FEB 18, 2022
The overall purpose of developing competence as an ophthalmologist is to improve the physician-patient relationship and the medical care that accompanies that relationship. Competent ophthalmologic practice requires both technical and ethical capacities. Technical capacities are comprised of the knowledge and skills required to practice medicine, and especially ophthalmology, according to current standards of care. Ethical capacities are demonstrated by acting as an agent of the patient, developing a caring relationship with patients, and an appreciation of clinical ethical problems.
An ophthalmologist who becomes temporarily or permanently impaired by illness, injury, chemical dependence, fatigue, or other conditions that affect medical judgment or performance should withdraw from those aspects of practice affected by the impairment and arrange for a qualified colleague to assume the responsibilities of ophthalmic care until the impairment has been resolved. If an impaired ophthalmologist does not appropriately withdraw, it is the duty of other ophthalmologists who know of the impairment to take action to attempt to assure correction of the situation.
The materials and information below are presented for user education and for the development of educational activities.
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