The Southern Philippines Medical Center (SPMC) Ophthalmology Residency Program is a rigorous three-year training program designed to develop highly competent ophthalmologists capable of managing a diverse and extensive range of ocular conditions. As a premier government tertiary hospital, SPMC provides residents with unique exposure to a vast and varied case load, reflecting the diverse ocular health needs of the community in the Southern Philippines.

Program Highlights:

• Comprehensive Clinical Exposure: Residents encounter a broad spectrum of cases, from common ocular conditions to complex and rare pathologies, including trauma, infections, degenerative diseases, and pediatric disorders. This extensive exposure ensures readiness to handle real-world challenges in any setting.
• Diverse Surgical Experience: Hands-on surgical training covers a wide array of procedures such as cataracts, corneal transplants, retinal surgeries, oculoplastics, and trauma repair, preparing residents for a variety of surgical scenarios encountered in a government hospital setting.
• Multispecialty Rotations: Rotations across subspecialties including glaucoma, pediatric ophthalmology, retina, uvea, and oculoplastics, with opportunities to manage complex cases unique to public health services.
• Community and Outreach Engagement: Active participation in outreach programs and community screenings allows residents to address ocular conditions prevalent in underserved populations, reinforcing the hospital’s role in regional eye health.
• Academic and Research Opportunities: Emphasis on research projects relevant to the local community, fostering innovation and evidence-based practice tailored to regional needs.
• Mentorship and Professional Growth: Faculty guidance is focused on developing clinical acumen, surgical skills, ethical standards, and leadership qualities necessary for serving a diverse patient population.

Goals: To produce well-rounded, socially responsible ophthalmologists who are adept at managing a wide spectrum of ocular diseases and trauma, capable of delivering high- quality eye care in both public and private settings, and committed to improving ocular health outcomes within the community.

Description of the Faculty:
Our department boasts of an esteemed roster of board-certified consultants, hailing from established institutions rendering notable achievements in our society, who altogether caters to almost all subspecialties under Ophthalmology.

Vision:
“The Premier Center in Ophthalmic Care, Training and Research in Mindanao.”

Mission:

• To provide compassionate, comprehensive, and updated ophthalmic care delivered by competent professionals;
• To provide continuing exemplary training and educational program;
• To produce competitive ophthalmologists thru continuing standardized training program; and
• To maintain updated relevant and holistic ophthalmic research program.

The Ophthalmology Residency Program at Southern Philippines Medical Center stands out due to its comprehensive training in various subspecialties, ensuring residents receive a well-rounded education. With mentorship from experienced faculty who are leaders in the field, residents gain invaluable insights and guidance. The program boasts state-of-the-art facilities that enhance the learning experience, preparing residents for real-world challenges while serving a diverse patient population that provides exposure to a wide range of cases. Additionally, opportunities for research allow residents to contribute to advancements in ophthalmology and gain experience in academic medicine. The supportive and collaborative environment fosters teamwork and communication, while involvement in community health initiatives deepens understanding of public health issues. Overall, the program emphasizes personal and professional growth, helping residents build confidence and essential leadership skills for their future careers.

What Makes the Ophthalmology Residency Program Special

1. Comprehensive Training: The program offers extensive training in various subspecialties of ophthalmology, ensuring residents gain a well-rounded education.
2. Experienced Faculty: Residents benefit from the mentorship of experienced ophthalmologists who are leaders in their fields, providing invaluable insights and guidance.
3. State-of-the-Art Facilities: Access to modern medical equipment and technologies enhances the learning experience and prepares residents for real- world challenges.
4. Diverse Patient Population: The program serves a diverse community, offering residents the opportunity to manage a wide range of cases. This exposure is crucial for developing clinical skills.
5. Research Opportunities: The residency encourages involvement in research, allowing residents to contribute to advancements in ophthalmology and gain experience in academic medicine.
6. Collaborative Environment: The program fosters a supportive and collaborative learning environment, promoting teamwork and communication among residents and faculty.
7. Community Engagement: Involvement in community health initiatives can enhance residents’ understanding of public health issues and improve their ability to serve diverse populations.
8. Personal Growth: The program emphasizes personal and professional development, helping residents build confidence and leadership skills essential for their future careers.

We are excited to welcome passionate, dedicated, and driven individuals who aspire to become future leaders in the field of Ophthalmology. At the Southern Philippines Medical Center, our Ophthalmology Residency Program offers a rigorous, well-rounded training experience grounded in clinical excellence, surgical competence, and compassionate patient care.

As the largest government hospital in Mindanao, SPMC provides a unique and diverse patient population, allowing residents to encounter a wide range of ophthalmic conditions—from routine cases to complex subspecialty pathologies. Under the guidance of experienced consultants and mentors, you will grow in skill, confidence, and professional integrity.

Here, you will not only gain clinical and surgical proficiency but also develop a strong sense of purpose in serving communities with limited access to eye care. The challenges you will face will shape your resilience, your judgment, and your heart as a healer.

We look forward to training the next generation of Ophthalmologists who will carry forward our commitment to excellence, service, and innovation in eye health. If you are ready to embark on this journey, we encourage you to take the first step and apply.