Enrolment for IMO Foundation’s on-going ophthalmology training programme for next year will close on 30 June. The programme’s courses, which will run from 1 October 2012 to 30 September 2013, include master’s in ophthalmic and orbital plastic surgery, cornea and refractive surgery, strabismus and paediatric ophthalmology, glaucoma, anterior segment and vitreous/retina, as well as post-graduate diplomas in ophthalmic surgery nursing, ocular photography and clinical optometry.
The programme’s unique formula, based on 360° training, ensures constant updating of the theoretical and practical knowledge of ophthalmology graduates, in the case of master’s programmes, and diploma graduates, in the case of postgraduate programmes, who wish to specialise in a certain area of ophthalmology. During the year, students have all of IMO’s facilities and technological resources at their disposal and continuous direct contact with the centre's specialists, who act as tutors, enabling students to get the most out of the training course.
One of the main benefits of IMO Foundation’s training programme, as highlighted by the students, is the role of IMO’s specialists, who, despite their extensive experience and knowledge, never cease learning and strive to incorporate the latest scientific and technological advances into their medical and surgical work in order to offer patients the best treatment possible and to be at the forefront of ophthalmology. It is into this work culture that the master’s and postgraduate students come and encounter experiences, resources and values that would be difficult to find elsewhere.
Research motivation
Maurizio Postorino, an Italian ophthalmologist who is currently undertaking a master’s in retina at IMO, highlights the benefit of "being able to rotate among different tutors to observe their techniques and learn about IMO’s research motivation, clinical sessions and constant updating of its entire medical team."
Another aspect of training at IMO that is particularly popular among students is the wet lab, a surgery practice laboratory, where students can hone their skills twice a week. "It’s very important training and, although I’ve seen it in other centres, this is the first time I’ve found it really useful. At IMO, the process is set up in such a way that it resembles a real operation. You can put into practice what you’ve learned and carry out particularly difficult procedures under the watchful eye of an expert, Rafa Martín, who’s an excellent adviser with a lot of patience," explains Postorino.
According to the ophthalmologist, "the doctors are totally dedicated to the patients and their conditions and always aim to go that one step further in terms of innovation. The latest developments are introduced in conditions of utmost safety and assessed under a critical eye." Moreover, "IMO’s work philosophy can be seen in its entire staff. I’ve been particularly impressed by their hospitality and willingness to help," he concludes.
For more information, please visit IMO's Masters and postgraduates
