Cataract surgery training varies internationally, but the UK model is widely regarded as structured and robust.
In the UK, training is nationally standardised through a single curriculum, uniform assessments, and mandatory outcome audits¹. This contrasts with parts of Europe, where training pathways and surgical exposure may vary considerably between countries.
In the United States, ophthalmology residency is shorter but often followed by fellowships. Surgical exposure can be high, but systems rely more heavily on institutional rather than national oversight².
The UK’s strength lies in its consistency and audit infrastructure, particularly the National Ophthalmology Database, which tracks real-world outcomes across thousands of surgeons.
All systems produce excellent surgeons, but they differ in how exposure, supervision, and accountability are structured. For patients, UK training offers reassurance through its transparency and national benchmarking.
References
- Royal College of Ophthalmologists. National Ophthalmology Database Audit: Cataract Surgery. RCOphth; annual report.
- Lee AG, Carter KD. Ophthalmology residency training in the United States: structure and outcomes. Ophthalmology. 2018;125(2):e15–e21.
