FAQs

Storm Eye Residents learning about surgical procedures

Frequently Asked Questions

How many residents are in your program?

  • We have 12 residents with four positions offered each year. 

What are your strengths?

  • Being the only academic center in Charleston and the major tertiary center for the state of South Carolina, our greatest strengths include clinical and surgical volume, management of complex pathology, and expert faculty in all ophthalmic sub-specialties.

Do residents rotate to a VA hospital?

  • Yes. Residents rotate to Ralph H. Johnson VA Medical Center for a 12 week block in first year, a 12 week block in second year, and a 24 week block in 3rd year. 

How much call do residents take?

  • Residents take home call every 8 days, and 2 weekends a month. 

Is there a wet lab? 

  • A newly renovated wet lab is available to residents 24 hours a day. We have a wet lab curriculum which includes phacoemulsification, corneal suturing, port placement, and MSICS organized by faculty and senior residents. Practice human eyes are available from Miracles in Sight. 

Are there didactic sessions?

  • Yes. Lectures are outlined in curriculum section. 

Do residents need to purchase lenses?

  • No. A set of diagnostic lenses (20D, 90D, 78D) are loaned to each resident for the duration of their residency. In addition, gonioscopy lenses, diagnostic lenses, and indirect ophthalmoscopes are available in the clinics. 

Is there a forum to present issues affecting residents? 

  • Yes. Program director meets with residents every month to discuss all issues and concerns pertaining to the residency program. Every month we hold chairman lunches to address any interdisciplinary concerns. 

Do residents attend national meetings?

  • Residents are encouraged to present at national meetings and receive funding to if they are presenting as first author. In addition, senior residents receive funding to attend AAO even if not presenting. 

What is the publication requirement?

  • Residents are required to publish one paper during their residency. Most residents meet this requirement by participating in Kiawah Eye national meeting. 

Do I need a car?

  • Yes. As the only academic ophthalmic institution in Charleston, residents cover clinic in Mount Pleasant, West Ashley, and North Charleston. 

Is parking available for residents?

  • Yes. Residents can purchase a parking pass at a discounted rate. 

What are the pay and benefits like?