Evaluating Ergonomics Education in United States Ophthalmology Residency Programs

Background: Musculoskeletal disorders are prevalent among ophthalmologists because of occupational risks that include repetitive movements and uncomfortable postures. Teaching proper ergonomic practices early in an ophthalmologist’s career may help avoid outcomes such as chronic pain and early retirement. Purpose: To investigate the level of formal ergonomics education in U.S. ophthalmology residencies. Methods: An Association of University Professors of Ophthalmology (AUPO) approved survey was distributed to program directors and coordinators of 113 residency programs via the AUPO email listserv. Results: The survey had a response rate of 33.6%. Of the 38 programs that responded, only 13 (34.2%) had a formal ergonomics curriculum. The average instruction time was 2.25 hours per year, with didactic sessions being the primary mode of education. Although 80% of respondents from programs with ergonomics curricula considered ergonomic education “very important,” only 60% of those without formal curricula did. Conclusion: Despite sporadic teaching in some programs, there is a significant gap in standardized ergonomics education across residencies.