EYE INSTITUTE OF NEVADA

The Eye Institute of Nevada (EINV) will train skilled and compassionate ophthalmologists through its exceptional ophthalmology residency program. Partnering with the Kirk Kerkorian School of Medicine at UNLV, the Institute will offer ophthalmic education through an ACGME-accredited Department of Ophthalmology, filling a crucial gap as Nevada's only ophthalmology residency program.  EINV leadership is currently developing this residency program with a target of our first residency class beginning in 2026 or 2027.

Establishing this residency program is vital for Nevada, currently ranking 47th in ophthalmologists per capita and lacking such a program. As the most populous state without an ophthalmology residency, Nevada faces a critical need for eye care professionals. A 2023 National Institutes of Health report emphasized the importance of increasing residency programs, noting that 70% of residents practice where they complete their training.

The ACGME-accredited program will prioritize clinical excellence, offering hands-on training in treating various eye conditions. Residents will learn cutting-edge technologies, telemedicine, and digital learning approaches. The program will also support medical student rotations, other residencies (internal medicine, ENT), and encourage ophthalmic research. Collaboration with neurosurgery, pathology, neurology, and radiology will enhance residents' understanding of complex eye diseases. Community outreach, especially to underserved areas, and training in the latest eye care technology and telemedicine are also integral.

Key program elements include didactic lectures, clinical rotations, and surgical simulation. Each resident will have a faculty advisor for personalized guidance and support. Training involves rotations in subspecialty clinics (cataract, cornea, retina, glaucoma, pediatric ophthalmology, neuro-ophthalmology, oculoplastics, vitreoretinal diseases) and rigorous surgical training through a structured curriculum.

Graduates of the Eye Institute of Nevada will be at the forefront of ophthalmic care, equipped with the latest clinical and surgical techniques. Their community involvement during training increases the likelihood of them practicing in Nevada. This partnership between the Kirk Kerkorian School of Medicine and the Eye Institute of Nevada has the potential to transform eye care in the state and region, establishing Las Vegas as a destination for exceptional eye care.