A Positive Experience in a Refractive Surgery Rotation

We optometry students at the University of the Incarnate Word Rosenberg School of Optometry in San Antonio, Texas, are provided with many opportunities to further our education. One of the most rewarding opportunities is to rotate through Parkhurst Nuvision during year 4 of our internships.

Rotating through Parkhurst Nuvision not only opened my eyes to the world of ophthalmology, but it also allowed me to collaborate as a future optometrist with ophthalmology. While at Parkhurst Nuvision, I saw an entirely different side of our profession. The ophthalmologists at this referral-based practice comanage patients with many fine community optometrists in the greater San Antonio area.

During my rotation, I learned the importance of establishing relationships with those in the profession of ophthalmology, and I was greatly impressed with how fluidly Parkhurst Nuvision is managed.

LEARNING THE ROPES

Working with Gregory D. Parkhurst, MD, FACS, was eye-opening. I was able to learn about the various types of refractive surgical procedures he and the other ophthalmologists in the practice offer and what each one entails. After learning about each type of surgery in the first week of the rotation, I was allowed to observe several.

Observing LASIK surgery was my favorite. It was fascinating to see how intricate the creation of the corneal flap was. During cataract surgery, knowing the amount of concentration and attention to detail it takes, I was intrigued by how effortless it looked. I had several burning questions, and Dr. Parkhurst took time to answer each one. He is a great teacher.

Being an intern at Parkhust Nuvision also allowed me to see how a successful business is run. Each staff member at the practice treats his or her patients and one another with a high level of respect. Communication is key. I enjoyed being taught not only about my profession but also about real-world applications.

A PERSONAL EXPERIENCE

A few weeks into my rotation, Dr. Parkhurst and I talked about refractive surgery options for myself. For years I had been told I would never be a candidate for refractive surgery due to my high hyperopia and high astigmatism. I also have esotropia and amblyopia, which was of main concern.

Dr. Parkhurst and his staff performed all the tests needed to see if I was a candidate, and 1 month later I was on the operating table. I had always thought of LASIK as a high risk for a person with my prescription. I was very calm through the whole process and had all my questions answered.

This rotation demonstrated for me how positive relationship is possible between optometry and ophthalmology and exposed me to the ever-growing list of refractive surgery options. I am so thankful to have gone through this rotation, and I am proud to say I am now walking around with 20/20 vision for the first time!