Patient safety is central to how cataract surgeons are trained in the UK.
Training follows a graded responsibility model, where trainees begin by observing, then assisting, and only later performing surgery under supervision. Senior surgeons remain responsible for patient outcomes throughout the training process¹.
Cases are selected carefully based on complexity, and trainees are not exposed to higher-risk surgery until they have demonstrated competence with routine cases. Outcomes are continuously monitored through audits and training assessments.
Large national datasets show that, when properly supervised, cataract surgery performed by trainees has comparable safety outcomes to that performed by fully qualified consultants². This reflects robust governance rather than chance.
Patients are informed when a trainee is involved in their care, and a supervising surgeon is present and able to intervene if required. This system ensures that training does not compromise standards, while allowing the next generation of surgeons to develop safely.
For patients, this means training is not experimental. It is structured, transparent, and overseen — with safeguards designed to protect outcomes at every stage.
References
- Royal College of Ophthalmologists. Guidance on Supervision and Patient Safety in Ophthalmic Training. RCOphth.
- Johnston RL, Taylor H, Smith R, et al. The Cataract National Dataset electronic multicentre audit: trainee versus consultant outcomes. Eye (London). 2010;24(5):888–893.
