Anita Csorba, Hungary, observership report from Ljubljana Eye Clinic, Slovenia

I would like to express my gratitude to SOE Educational Grant for the opportunity to spend one month as a fellow during the spring of 2023 in the Department of Ophthalmology of the University Medical Centre Ljubljana, Slovenia.

At this institute, they considered my primary area of focus from the very first moment and organized my schedule accordingly. The department is well-equipped and the patient’s care is efficiently managed. The hospital’s working conditions are carefully designed to enable specialists to deliver modern medical treatment using the latest diagnostic and surgical equipment. I want to emphasize that the clinical staff, both in outpatient care and in the operating room, were incredibly helpful and friendly. One of the most remarkable aspects of my time at the Eye Clinic Ljubljana was the opportunity to observe advanced anterior segment surgical procedures, such as DMEK, trabeculectomy, DSO, Yamane technique, and complex cataract cases. This experience greatly expanded my knowledge and expertise.

I would like to express my personal gratitude to my mentor, Dr. Špela Štunf Pukl, who took the time to explain and discuss cases despite being busy with daily tasks. Her precise approach and unwavering dedication to patient care will undoubtedly inspire me in the future. I am also thankful for the kindness and assistance provided by Ana Gornik and Martin Možina, who made me feel welcome and guided me in organizing my days. Lastly, I extend my appreciation to Prof. Dr. Marko Hawlina, the Chairman of the SOE Education Committee, and Mojca Globočnik Petrovič, the Chairman of the Eye Clinic, for their support and for granting me the opportunity to complete my observation period at this outstanding center. I believe that training in this clinic was invaluable as I had the chance to learn from highly experienced experts, which will undoubtedly benefit my future career.

In conclusion, my educational experience was extremely positive and beneficial. I highly recommend applying for an SOE Grant to seize the opportunity to learn from leading experts at top ophthalmology centers of excellence.

Anita Csorba, resident doctor