The rotation is devoted to the real-world practice of optometry in a busy multi-disciplinary setting.  The student will gain direct hands-on experience with not only primary eye care, but with management and co-management of a vast array of ocular and systemic diseases, through preceptor teaching, conferences and lectures. Students are given the opportunity to observe retinal and anterior segment procedures, intravitreal injections and cataract surgery. Students are expected to actively participate in the clinical care of patients, conferences, journal clubs and lectures with professional staff. The 100,000 square foot facility offers a broad range of medical services as well as on-site pharmacy.

LEARNING OBJECTIVES:

1. The student will participate in direct patient care activities with clinical staff and other students.  We accept externs from 5 Colleges of Optometry.

2. The student will work with the staff and students within the Eye Clinic in a shared-learning environment.

3. The student will attend and participate in Grand Rounds, lectures and conferences as at the medical facility.

4. The student will complete readings as assigned by the Student Externship Coordinator or clinic staff.

5. The student will give one presentation to the Eye Clinic staff as assigned by the Student Externship Coordinator.

Weekly Student Lectures (i.e. New Advances, Case Review)

• Monthly Journal Club

• Monthly Staff Lectures (i.e. NBEO Review, General Lectures)

• NBEO Part III Practice Time Provided

• NBEO Injection Skills – Arm Provided as needed

• On-site laser procedures, injections & workshops (i.e. Yag Cap, LPI, SLT)

External Learning Opportunities

• St. Luke’s Cataract & Laser Institute — Surgical observation (see misc)

• Ocala West VA Optometry Clinic — Low Vision Observation

• Ocala West VA Optometry Clinic — Stroke/Prism Rehabilitation

• Local Society Meetings with CE