Creating the Future…Today
The RSA Fellowship Program provides real-world practice experience with exceptional salaries and benefits commensurate (or better) with other ophthalmologists at the same level. As a “Two-Option” Fellowship Program, the salary model for either option – “Fellow” (year one option) or “Associate” (two year option) – are thoughtful and competitive. Importantly, salary and benefits with the “Associate” option, provides the opportunity to significantly increase your income with production.
Opportunities exist to create a new practice for exceptional RSA Fellows post-Fellowship position with alternatives for those who wish to enter practice outside the RSA Network. Applicants to the RSA Fellowship Program should come prepared to discuss their practice aspirations and preferences.
The RSA Fellowship Network is limited to ophthalmologists showing superior skills and promise. We reserve the right to leave positions unfilled in the event that enough qualified candidates are not identified.
Qualifications and Application Elements
The following elements describe the core considerations. Additional factors may be considered.
~ TRAINING: Applicants to US Host Sites for the RSA Fellowship Program should have completed (or be scheduled to complete) an AUPO approved ophthalmic residency program. Applicants to non-US Host Sites should have completed (or be expected to complete) an accredited residency program in the host-site country. In general, residency programs accredited by the ICO or equivalent will qualify.
~ APPLICATION: All applicants must complete the RSA Fellowship Application Form in its entirety. This application provides detailed background information, including academic achievements, ophthalmic training, surgical experience, any disciplinary issues, legal convictions, health issues, statements of intent, and other information.
~ BACKGROUND CHECK: All applicants will undergo background checks. In the event that disqualifying issues are identified, applicants will have the opportunity to confirm findings prior to disqualification.
~ REFERENCES: Letters of reference will be required from the Applicant’s residency director, at least one fellow resident, and one physician who is an RSA member.
~ INTERVIEWS: Applicants who are under consideration for a position will be interviewed in one or more sessions. Travel may be required.
~ SKILLS ASSESSMENT: Surgical videos, demonstration of surgical dexterity, clinical observation, oral examinations, interview skills, and other skills assessment processes will be employed during the application process.
~ 360 ASSESSMENT: Finalist candidates may be required to undergo additional assessments, such as a 360 assessment, by people in their current institution and by other associates.
Selection Process
Applications will be qualified for consideration based on meeting the training requirements, completion of the application, receipt of letters of reference and successful completion of the background check.
Application processing will be overseen by the RSA Fellowship Committee, which includes most or all of the RSA Fellowship Preceptors, the RSA Fellowship Program director, and members of the RSA Executive Committee.
Finalists will be provided a list of with potential Host Sites and preceptors to submit as part of the RSA Fellowship Match program. Finalist and alternate acceptance will be granted to potential fellows at each Host Site.
Final match will be by mutual agreement of the applicant and Host Site preceptors.