While the day-to-day work of patient care is deeply fulfilling and often the driving force behind choosing a career in medicine, many ophthalmologists seek to expand their impact—whether through unique clinical experiences, mentorship, research, or leadership. This article explores pathways to professional excellence that extend beyond routine clinical practice.
Pathways as a Clinician
There is a plethora of unique experiences to engage in that broaden your clinical acumen beyond routine care.
For example, global ophthalmology (GO) initiatives allow ophthalmologists to make a tangible impact by improving access to eye care in underserved communities. If you are a young ophthalmologist interested in making GO a cornerstone of your career, there are several fellowships available to pursue. In the Global Ophthalmology episode of Real World Ophthalmology’s podcast, Dr. Paul Chan reflects on the mentorship in the GO community:
“The global ophthalmology fellowship is a community. Every fellowship is different in certain ways because of the mentors that are there, but all with the same goal, purpose, and mission. That’s what I love about it. You’re not just getting mentored by the people in that fellowship or the program that you’re in, you’re getting mentored by this community of people.”
Some ophthalmologists take interdisciplinary approaches, combining their medical expertise with personal passions to create unique roles. At the RWO Fall 2024 Virtual Event, Dr. Andrew Lee shared how he melds his neuro-ophthalmology knowledge with his enthusiasm for space exploration and football. He is a NASA consultant, studying spaceflight-associated neuro-ocular syndrome, and developed a training program for NFL referees that uses neuro-ophthalmic principles. Referencing a photo of himself as a child, he exclaimed, “This little guy decided to be a doctor. His second choice: NASA. His third choice: Jedi knight. It turns out that I get to do all 3!”
Pathways to Mentorship
By guiding students, residents, or fellows, mentorship refines your teaching abilities, deepens your expertise, and helps shape the next generation of ophthalmologists. This reciprocal relationship often hones essential soft skills like communication, emotional intelligence, problem-solving, and patience.
Pathways to Research
For young ophthalmologists eager to pursue meaningful research after residency or fellowship, numerous avenues are available. Early-stage investigators—researchers within 10 years of finishing their training and new to major National Institutes of Health (NIH) funding—are given priority for R01-equivalent grants as part of NIH’s effort to support the next generation of scientists. This initiative emphasizes the potential of early-career researchers, encouraging innovation and diversity in biomedical research. If you choose a career in private practice, collaborating with industry is an excellent way to stay involved in research and familiarize yourself with advancements.
Pathways as a Leader
Engaging with organizations such as AAO, subspecialty societies, or local medical boards offers platforms to shape policy, foster collaboration, and mentor peers. Micro-credentialing is another excellent way to foster your leadership skills. Pursuing additional qualifications like an MBA, MHA, or certifications in health care innovation can open doors to leadership in practice management, research, or policy.
Conclusion
The journey to professional excellence is as varied and unique as the individuals who pursue it. Whether through clinical experience, mentorship, research, or leadership, ophthalmologists have countless opportunities to grow and make a lasting impact. By embracing these pathways, you not only enrich your own career but also contribute to the evolution of the field. OM
This column is produced in partnership with Real World Ophthalmology, an educational resource created by Dr. Nijm that is helping thousands of young ophthalmologists succeed in early practice. RWO covers new clinical innovations, business topics and areas of professional growth. Visit RealWorldOphthalmology.com to learn more about our NEW professional development program for early career surgeons, the RWO Leadership Launchpad!
