Assessment of Ophthalmology Residency Training in Switzerland: A Trainee-Based Survey.

Abstract

Background: This study aimed to evaluate the current status of ophthalmology residency training in Switzerland and provide insights for enhancing training programs.

Materials and methods: The survey covered demographic data such as gender, age, workplace, and year of residency, as well as working conditions, current practical and diagnostic skills, interest in scientific work, and future plans. It consisted of 16 multiple choice questions (MCQ), 5 multiple select questions (MSQ), 8 free-text, 6 Net Promoter Score (NPS), and 4 Likert scale questions. All Young Swiss Ophthalmologists (YSO) members received an invitation to participate in the survey using an online form. All collected data were anonymized, and participants provided their consent for data collection, analysis, and publication.

Results: The survey assessed the perspectives of 63 Swiss ophthalmology residents on their training experiences. Respondents indicated the greatest interest in specializing in cataract and vitreoretinal surgery, followed by cornea, glaucoma, refractive surgery, and lid surgery. They also expressed a great need for improved supervision, structured curricula, and alignment of clinical and research duties. While pursuing additional surgical training and private practice autonomy, residents also expressed a preference for balanced workloads that emphasize patient care over full-time academic work.

Conclusion: The survey indicates a need to standardize ophthalmology residency training in Switzerland to ensure comprehensive and uniform education. It also highlights specific areas for improvement, such as the absence of surgical training. Ongoing assessments are necessary to evaluate future developments.