R1 – Foundations of Ophthalmology

R1 is the foundation year of the Brunei Basic Specialist Training (BST) in Ophthalmology Programme.

The emphasis is on developing safe core ophthalmic examination skills, familiarity with common investigations, acute ophthalmology assessment, theatre practice and basic procedural competence.

Core Learning Outcomes

By the end of R1, trainees should demonstrate competence in:

• Basic ophthalmic examination

• Slit lamp examination

• Tonometry

• Indirect ophthalmoscopy

• Basic OCT interpretation

• Acute ophthalmology assessment

• Theatre sterility and microscope handling

• Basic procedural skills

Progression Expectations

Progression from R1 to R2 requires satisfactory overall performance and demonstration of safe clinical practice.

Minimum expectations include:

• Satisfactory Educational Supervisor report

• Satisfactory annual review outcome

• Maintenance of the procedural logbook

• Completion of required workplace-based assessments

• Participation in emergency eye care services

• Demonstration of professionalism and safe clinical practice

Workplace-Based Assessments

Recommended minimum assessments during R1:

• Case-based Discussions (CBD): 6

• Direct Observation of Procedural Skills (DOPS): 6

• Multi-source Feedback (MSF): 1 annually

Indicative Procedural Exposure

During R1, trainees should aim to achieve appropriate supervised exposure to:

• Cataract surgery assists: 30

• Cataract surgery supervised steps: 5–10

• Corneal foreign body removal: 10

• Intravitreal injections: 10

• Chalazion procedures: 5

• Lacrimal syringing procedures: 10

Procedural numbers are indicative and should be considered alongside demonstrated competency, procedural safety and overall progression.

Examinations

Trainees are strongly encouraged to attempt FRCOphth Part 1 during R1.