Vasil Kostin

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Summer School of Practical Ophthalmology

Ophthalmology, Education

Improve your theoretical knowledge and gain practical experience from renowned clinicians and researchers.

Summer School of Practical Ophthalmology is unique summer program with innovative approach to advanced education in Ophthalmology that focus on last year medical students and first two years of Ophthalmology Residents. What made this event truly exceptional in Europe was its entirely English-language program with full hands-on experience.

Over 70 applicants applied for the program first batch, with the selection committee ultimately choosing the 12 most qualified candidates.

The participating students hailed from various universities, including 3 from the University of Copenhagen, 4 from Sorbonne University, 1 from the University of Geneva, and 4 from Charles University.

Practical Program

‍The program was divided into theoretical, practical, and scientific components. It aimed to provide participants with in-depth knowledge of various eye conditions through clinical seminars in the morning, surpassing what is typically offered at their home universities. In the afternoons, experienced instructors led workshops for hands-on practice in specific areas. Participants delved into topics ranging from anterior segment eye diseases to foreign body removal, cataract surgery, and corneal microsurgery. They even had the opportunity to learn examination techniques on a porcine model and perform procedures such as ultrasonic lens removal.

All surgurical training was performed on porcine eyes.

Theoretical Program

‍The academic segment of the program featured lectures from prominent scientists in the field, covering genetics (João Pedro Marques, Head of the Retinal Dystrophies Clinic in Coimbra), AI in ophthalmology (Dominic Williamson, PhD student supervised by Prof. Pearse Kean), value-based healthcare (Dr. Med. Sophie-Christin Ernst), pediatric ophthalmology, cellular therapies, and oculoplasty. Adding excitement to the program were live surgical broadcasts from operating rooms under the guidance of the Head of the Eye Clinic. Beyond the theoretical-practical program, the event fostered cultural exchange among students, allowing them to connect with Czech peers, explore Prague, and build professional relationships with future colleagues from other European institutions.

Key Data:

• 12 main participants, including workshop attendees.

• 5 participants in lectures and seminars.

• 13+ attendees at public lectures.

• 78 applicants for the practical program from 9 European universities.

• Sponsors' logos were displayed 224 times during the event, with a remarkable click-through rate (CTR) of 103.13%.

• Sponsors' logos were showcased 1700 times between August 25, 2023, and September 3, 2023.

Future Plans

‍In the coming years, the Summer School of Practical Ophthalmology aims to cater to the educational needs of young ophthalmologists. Specialized training will encompass theoretical and practical skills, including surgical procedures, OCT interpretation, and understanding artificial intelligence algorithms for more efficient diagnosis and treatment. Workshops will focus on patient-centered care, value-based healthcare concepts in ophthalmology, and support for high-quality, empathetic, and ethically sound work that leads to improved patient outcomes.

The program's vision includes:

1) Incorporating leadership and management training into the curriculum to empower participants as future leaders in ophthalmology.

2) Establishing a structured mentorship program to connect young ophthalmologists with experienced professionals, fostering their professional growth and leadership.

3) Organizing seminars that promote collaboration between ophthalmologists and other medical specialties, encouraging a holistic approach to patient care and interdisciplinary education.

4) Introducing simulations of ophthalmic surgeries and diagnostic procedures based on augmented reality, providing participants with realistic and risk-free environments for skill development.

5) Expanding the school's impact through campaigns to promote eye health, raise awareness about preventable eye diseases, and support advocacy efforts.

By forging strategic collaborations with leading institutions, industry partners, and experts in the field, the educational program aims to stay at the forefront of ophthalmology. Mentorship programs and networking opportunities will provide ongoing support to participants throughout their professional journey.

The Summer School of Practical Ophthalmology is not just an event; it's a platform for nurturing the future of eye care and empowering the next generation of ophthalmologists.

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