The Royal College of Ophthalmologists

Who we are

The College acts as the voice of the profession, we set the curriculum and examinations for trainee ophthalmologists, provide training in eye surgery, maintain standards in the practice of ophthalmology, and promote research and advance science in the specialty. Ophthalmologists are at the forefront of eye health services because of their extensive training and experience in the area.

As an independent charity, our policies are based on impartial, clinically based evidence. We work with leaders and decision-makers in the eye health sector, such as government health departments, commissioning bodies, and patient and charity organisations to help shape eye services for the benefit of patients.

We have over 3,500 members worldwide and our work involves:

-Developing the education, training and exam programme for doctors wishing to specialise in ophthalmology

-Setting and maintaining the standards for professional practice of ophthalmology through clinical guidelines

-Promoting study and ground-breaking research in ophthalmology and publishing the results, including through our scientific journal, EYE

-Educating the public in eye health

-Organising a comprehensive programme of seminars, surgical skills courses and our annual scientific Congress

We support NHS Trusts in reviewing their hospital eye health services, using our expertise in ophthalmic care and management of eye health for patients.