Ophthalmologic Societies:

ICO Resolution on Ophthalmology Curriculum for Medical Student Education

September 2000

The ICO recommends that ophthalmology should be included as part of the core curricula of medical student education in all medical schools worldwide on the following ground:

Whereas due to the continuous aging of the world population in the 21st century, increasing longevity of human life and eye diseases such as cataracts, macular degenerations, glaucomas, etc. being important components of the aging processes, eye care becomes increasingly important in the general practice of medicine.

We believe that primary eye care should be a basic capability of general physicians and pediatricians.

We further believe that ophthalmic manifestations of systemic diseases, including medical, neurological and metabolic diseases, must be taught to medical students as part of the core curriculum of the holistic education of a modern physician.

The ICO proposes that ophthalmology be an integral part of the core curriculum of medical student education.

The details of the ophthalmic curriculum will be forthcoming.

Next: ICO Proposal for Five Percent of Training Positions

Also see: Resources for Societies