FEB 26, 2020
There is growing interest among ophthalmologists-in-training and practicing ophthalmologists to participate in global health activities and international ophthalmic care. In ophthalmology residency training programs, the Accreditation Council for Graduate Medical Education (ACGME) now recognizes an international elective rotation for ophthalmology trainees. On the fellowship level, a number of global health training programs have been developed in ophthalmology; however, none of them are currently defined or accredited by the American Board of Ophthalmology or the ACGME.[1]
Due to this growing interest, the ethical challenges presented to physicians who choose to work internationally take on increased importance. Preferred practice patterns may vary and standards of care may be different when working in different areas of the world, but one fundamental issue remains paramount in the performance of international clinical care and research: Consideration must always be taken to act in the best interest of the individual patient and the local community. It is essential to maintain ophthalmology’s high standards of quality care and professionalism while practicing outside the country in which one resides.
The materials and information below are presented for user education and for the development of educational activities.
Specific Resources
Related Content