Competition for ophthalmology ST1 has intensified steadily over recent cycles, rising from ~9:1 (2022) to ~10:1 (2023), ~14:1 (2024) and ~22:1 (2025) [1]. Against this background, applicants benefit from a structured approach: mapping achievements to portfolio domains early, identifying gaps...

For a few years, we have worked together with the practice variance surveys to tease out differences in the way we work and to discuss issues that arise. I hope that we have learnt some lessons and reflected on what...

Intravitreal dexamethasone (Ozurdex 0.7mg) is a biodegradable, sustained-release implant used to manage diabetic macular oedema, macular oedema secondary to retinal vein occlusion, and non-infectious posterior uveitis due to its anti-inflammatory effects and VEGF suppression [1]. While effective, the implant may...

Have you signed the petition yet?” the nurse asked me. I am generally a type of person who signs a lot of petitions whilst being cynical that they do anything at all for anyone, including the person who signs them,...

“In the midst of tragedy, we start the comedy” – Agatha Christie, The ABC Murders. Throughout a career in medicine, we are often faced with tragedy. One of the coping mechanisms is to use humour to navigate the mini everyday...