The timing and impact of factors influencing the pursuit of pediatric ophthalmology fellowship training.

PURPOSE

To identify the timing and impact of factors that influenced recent pediatric ophthalmology fellows in their subspecialty decision.

METHODS

An anonymous survey was distributed to pediatric ophthalmology fellows who matriculated into US fellowship programs between 2021 and 2023. The survey assessed training background, timing of exposures to the field, and influential decision-making factors.

RESULTS

A total of 61 respondents completed the survey. Among US medical graduates, 18 (40%) first considered a career in pediatric ophthalmology during medical school, followed by 11 (24%) during PGY3, 8 (18%) during PGY2, 3 (7%) during PGY1 and PGY4, and 3 (4%) prior to medical school. During medical school and residency, exposure to clinical and surgical experiences as well as faculty mentorship contributed most to respondent interest in the specialty. Key motivational factors to pursue pediatric ophthalmology included the types of surgeries performed, patient population, and the opportunity to improve patient access to care. Conversely, respondents expressed concerns regarding financial compensation and perceived difficulty of the field.

CONCLUSIONS

A large percentage of future pediatric ophthalmologists become interested in the field during medical school, which may thus represent a critical period to attract more trainees to pediatric ophthalmology. Strategies to foster greater interest in pediatric ophthalmology could include more early mentorship and rotation opportunities.