News & Views

Read the latest RCOphth news updates and guidance here.

News

New survey reveals improvements in cataract training opportunities in the independent sector

Access to cataract training in the independent sector has improved following collaborative work undertaken by The Royal College of Ophthalmologists, with placements available in all regions where independent sector providers (ISPs) operate, other than London North. Despite this progress, more work is needed as trainees in nearly all regions report they need additional training opportunities in ISPs.

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News

RCOphth backs independent prescribing responsibilities for orthoptists

The Royal College of Ophthalmologists has written to Health Minister Will Quince MP to express our support for the extension of independent prescribing responsibilities to orthoptists. The British and Irish Orthoptic Society has previously advocated for these responsibilities, including in a letter to the Secretary of State.

News

GMC’s 2023 annual training survey shows progression improving for ophthalmologists in training, alongside concerns over burnout and access to independent sector

What was the experience of ophthalmologists in training in 2023, and how does this compare to previous years? Jordan Marshall, RCOphth Policy Manager and Sam Simpson, specialty trainee and Ophthalmologists in Training Group (OTG) representative, summarise the key findings from the GMC’s 2023 National Training Survey.

News

Increased training places on the agenda as government responds to Parliamentary report

The government has responded to a report by the Health and Social Care Select Committee, agreeing that if medical school places are to be expanded ‘there would need to be the appropriate number of specialty training places subsequently made available for graduates’. With the upcoming Long Term Workforce Plan in England expected to announce increases to medical school places, this clarity is important in potentially paving the way for a much-needed expansion in ophthalmology specialty training places.