Wendy Cheung

Exchange Period: 15 July – 23 August 2024

My placement at Tianjin Medical University Eye Hospital was eye-opening and insightful. The hospital system differs significantly from the PolyU Optometry Clinic. Patients undergo history-taking with the ophthalmologist, followed by recommended tests in different rooms, and then return to the doctor's room for diagnosis and treatment. While this approach enables a high volume of patients through teamwork, the fragmented approach may impact the overall patient experience and the optometrist's ability to provide holistic care, as it can limit doctor-patient interaction.

Despite workflow differences, I gained invaluable experience under experienced ophthalmologists. I had the chance to observe various specialist consultations and surgical procedures, including a rare suturing surgery for cyclodialysis cleft. A post-surgery tutorial with the ophthalmologist and a local 5-year student deepened my understanding of differential diagnosis and conventional treatment of cyclodialysis. Comparing similar cases taught me that patients are unique and require individualized treatment, highlighting the importance of personalized care.

Overall, my placement was transformative. It broadened my perspective and allowed me to witness diverse approaches to optometry and ophthalmology practice. The opportunity to learn from experienced specialists has been invaluable in shaping my understanding of the field and my aspirations as an optometrist.

I am grateful for this opportunity as it broadened my knowledge, improved my communication skills, and highlighted the importance of being a global citizen. I encourage students to be proactive and embrace challenges, as these experiences are uniquely rewarding and offer more learning opportunities than expected.