The residency in pediatric optometry is based in the ophthalmology section of the hospital, where there are 3 clinic locations, 4 pediatric ophthalmologists, 1 pediatric ophthalmology fellow, 2 ophthalmology residents, 3 optometrists, 1 optometric resident, and 1 - 2 optometric student externs.

The primary objectives of the residency are to increase the resident’s examination techniques and skills in seeing pediatric patients, including infants, toddlers and older children (up to age 18 years).  The patient’s diagnosis include: retinopathy of prematurity, aphakia, trauma, accommodative esotropia, amblyopia, and routine refractive errors.  Emphasis on developing a treatment plan for these conditions and following their progress is promoted.  Recognizing conditions that are amblyogenic, such as ptosis, anisometropia, and strabismus is also emphasized. 

The residency is affiliated with the  University of Missouri – St Louis College of Optometry, and is more oriented toward advanced pediatric primary care. There is no vision therapy or orthoptics.  UMSL does have a pediatric residency that is vision therapy based and is located at the school.

In addition to the clinic duties, the resident is required to attend bi monthly lectures, present journal articles at quarterly journal club, participate in “residency days” at UMSL, with a case report presentation. 

Please let me know any other questions you may have.

Sincerely,

Timothy Hug, OD, FAAO
Optometry Residency Program Director