Aisha Ismail Abubakar

Ophthalmology is one of the most competitive specialties out there. It is no wonder that in 2021 there was a study carried out called Predictors of Ophthalmology Career Success (POCS) study. The study was the first quantitative assessment of the factors that determine success in OST (Ophthalmology Specialty Training) recruitment and ophthalmology postgraduate examinations in the UK (1). This only buttresses the fact that it is a sought out specialty by many. In 2021, there were 89 posts for 605 applicants. This put the competition ratio at 6.80 (2). This ratio only went up in 2022 and it appears it will maintain this trend in the years to come.

So, what does this mean for the many hundreds of ophthalmology enthusiasts? To settle for another specialty or to keep applying year after year.

For many, the application process is daunting, and they feel defeated before even starting. The financial implication of trying to build a reputable portfolio doesn’t make things any easier. Applicants spend thousands of pounds on courses, meetings and projects to boost their portfolio and score points. This process of putting together evidence is draining both physically and mentally to say the least

Many apply feeling they don’t stand a chance. The adage of ‘you will never know until you try’ finds relevance in this conversation. That the competition ratio is high, doesn’t mean that one won’t succeed especially looking at the fact that so many people have got in over the years. This does not negate that fact that one must put in the effort.

My advice to fellow applicants like myself this year? Be determined, be persistent and be positive! Who knows what lies at the end of the gruelling journey?! Several life lessons, many experiences, professional growth perhaps? These are all ingredients for personal growth in my opinion.

To my fellow IMGs who face unique and personal challenges in building a portfolio and adjusting to the UK system; your resilience is why you’re still here, and you owe it to yourself to go for what you want and give it your best shot!

If you’re applying to OST this year, do not feel defeated before the battle has begun. As one of my teachers in medical school used to always say ‘’go for gold’’!

Be Determined!

Be Persistent!

Be Positive!

References

1. Das A, Smith D, Mathew RG. Predictors of ophthalmology career success (POCS) study. BMJ Open Ophthalmol. 2021 Jul;6(1):e000735.

2. 2021 Competition ratios | Health Education England [Internet]. Health Education England | Medical Education Hub. [cited 2022 Nov 2]. Available from: https://medical.hee.nhs.uk/medical-training-recruitment/medical-specialty-training/competition-ratios/2021-competition-ratios