Role of Nepal Ophthalmic Society as a Professional Association

The study included 309 ophthalmologists and residents. Majority were young (60.1% aged ≤40 years) and female (54%). Most participants (49.52%) believed primary function of NOS was professional development, followed by advocacy, and public awareness (34.73%). The mean satisfaction rating for NOS's role was 5.6 ± 1.85 out of 10. The major challenges faced by ophthalmologists in Nepal included low salary and financial difficulties (25.72%) as well as poor residency training and lack of surgical exposure (22.51%); 75.56% of respondents considered misuse of 'Doctor" title by non-ophthalmologists a significant issue, with most suggested solutions being press releases and public awareness campaigns (63.43%), followed by notifying regulatory bodies (39.62%) Conclusion: The NOS has been significantly contributing to professional development, advocacy, and skill enhancement in Nepal. Key challenges include low salaries, inadequate surgical training, and misuse of 'Doctor" title. Strengthening membership outreach, advocating professional rights, and addressing concerns will enhance NOS's impact and ensure its long-term sustainability in shaping Nepal's ophthalmology landscape.