The international council of ophthalmology: vision for ophthalmic education in an interdependent world

Abstract

Purpose: To describe the emerging strategic global perspective of the International Council of Ophthalmology (ICO) efforts in ophthalmic education.

Design: A global perspective describing how the development of sophisticated educational tools in tandem with information technology can revolutionize ophthalmic education worldwide.

Methods: Review of ICO educational tools, resources, and programs that are available to ophthalmic educators across the globe.

Results: With the explosive growth of the Internet, the ability to access medical information in the most isolated of locations is now possible. Through specific ICO initiatives, including the ICO curricula, the "Teaching the Teachers" program, and the launching of the new ICO Center for Ophthalmic Educators, the ICO is providing ophthalmic educators across the globe with access to standardized but customizable educational programs and tools to better train ophthalmologists and allied eye care professionals throughout the world.

Conclusion: Access to educational tools and strengthening of global learning will help providers meet the goals of VISION 2020 and beyond in eliminating avoidable blindness. It is the intent of the ICO that its programs for ophthalmic educators, including conferences, courses, curricula, and online resources, result in better-trained ophthalmologists and eye care professionals worldwide.