The Undergraduate Training in Ophthalmology: The University of Nigeria Nsukka Medical Students

ABSTRACT

Objective: The study was embarked upon to determine the view of University of Nigeria final year medical students on the adequacy of their undergraduate training in ophthal- mology; vis-a-vis rendering basic eye care as general duty doctors. Methods: One hundred final year medical students; who had finished their ophthalmology clinical postings; completed a self-administered; structured and semi structured questionnaires in August 2004. Data analysis was done manually using an electronic calculator. Result: Majority of the students (60) were of the view that the training was inadequate. This was largely attributed to the low level of clinical exposure and community experience in the programme. Conclusion: The undergraduate training in ophthalmology undergone by these final year medical students may not have equipped them with adequate knowledge and skills to render basic eye care as general duty doctors. There is a need to improve the relevance and quality of the training.) were of the view that the training was inadequate. This was largely attributed to the low level of clinical exposure and community experience in the programme. Conclusion: The undergraduate training in ophthalmology undergone by these final year medical students may not have equipped them with adequate knowledge and skills to render basic eye care as general duty doctors. There is a need to improve the relevance and quality of the training