Wills Eye Hospital Ophthalmology Review Course – Eyecare Fundamentals

My impressions and why I highly recommend the Wills Eye Hospital Ophthalmology Review course to every ophthalmologist. - Atanas Bogoev, MD, FEBO

When I signed up for the Wills Eye Hospital Ophthalmology Review Course (OnDemand 2023/2024), I expected a solid academic review. What I didn’t expect was how energizing and intellectually well I would feel when revisiting the very foundations of ophthalmology.

The lectures were presented with clarity, depth, and all of them were up to date. As a practicing ophthalmology consultant and educator, I found this course not only useful for knowledge consolidation but also inspiring in the way it reconnected me with the "why" behind what we do every day in the clinic and the OR.

First Impressions of the Course – A Professional and Polished Experience

From the moment I logged in, the structure and layout were very intuitive.

The team at Wills Eye did a fantastic job making this an accessible and user-friendly learning platform. The 47 modular video lectures are broken down into logical sections—perfect for self-paced learning. There are additional supplimental matherials for every single topic.

I could easily choose whether to deep-dive into unfamiliar areas or skim through sections I felt confident in. The 61.75 CME credits are just the icing on the cake—this course was built to deliver value, not just tick boxes.

The Wills Eye Ophthalmology Review Course is a paid course, and the registration fee is $350.

What I Learned at the Wills Eye Hospital Ophthalmology Review Course

Here’s a selection of some of the standout moments and insights I took from each major area:

Optics and Refraction

The five-part optics series was more than just basic optical formulas and theoretical presentations. The instructors explained the clinical relevance of optical principles in refractive surgery, low vision care, and the optical principles relate to pathology. I found new ways to explain concepts like astigmatic correction to trainees— clear, visual, and clinically anchored.

Anatomy, Embryology & Physiology

Ocular anatomy great refresher. Understanding in depth the embryologic origin of the ocular structures helped reframe why certain congenital anomalies present the way they do. The physiology segment was very practical and touched on aqueous dynamics in a way that laid the groundwork for appreciating newer Glaucoma MIGS techniques.

Ocular Pathology

From inflammation to intraocular tumors, the pathology lectures brought in high-yield visuals, practical diagnostic clues, and pearls I now integrate into my teaching sessions. A particularly powerful moment was understanding the clinical importance when assessing the pathology of eyelid tumors and their clinical significance. To be honest, I was not expecting to find the pathology part so interesting, but was pleasantly surprised.

Pharmacology and Therapeutics

Systemic medications, drug-induced ocular side effects, and a full update on pharmacokinetics and pharmacodynamics — this section made me pause and revise my own prescribing habits. I also appreciated the pharmacokinetics overview, something often brushed aside but essential in systemic disease management.

Basic Immunology and Uveitis

We all perceive Uveitis and Immunology as intimidating, but the Wills Eye Review Course modules made immunology easily understandable. The course provided a clinical context for cytokine pathways, autoimmune markers, and granulomatous vs. non-granulomatous distinctions. A must-watch for anyone who’s ever had to deal with a complex uveitis or “white dot” syndrome diagnosis.

Orbit, Eyelid, and Lacrimal

The supplemental “Rapid Reviews” were brilliant for visuals—MRIs, CTs, cranial nerves—all in clean, concise clips. These were among my most replayed videos. If you’re a resident preparing for exams or a clinician managing complex orbital disease, you’ll love these.

Retina and Vitreous

Four sessions covered everything from diabetic retinopathy to retinal detachment principles. The pathology segments on the retina tied in beautifully, especially when discussing ischemia patterns or tumor differentials.

Glaucoma

Beyond textbook knowledge, these modules helped reinforce a structured approach to angle evaluation, optic nerve head assessment, and interpreting visual fields. It was great to hear perspectives on the evolving role of imaging, plus some new surgical trends in glaucoma.

RELATED: Glaucoma Training Courses Worldwide: The Ultimate Guide

Neuro-Ophthalmology

This was the section I most anticipated—and it did not disappoint. From third nerve palsy patterns to differentiating optic neuritis from NAION, the lectures were clear, practical, and steeped in clinical wisdom. In my opinion, тhese modules should be mastered by all residents and young ophthalmologists.

Teaching Value for Residents, Fellows, and Educators

As someone passionate about education, I found the course to be a goldmine of teaching inspiration. I’ve already begun using the format and lecture structures as an inspiration when preparing my own presentations.

For young ophthalmologists preparing for their EBO exam, ICO Exam, or US board exams, this course will not only guide your revision but also sharpen your clinical instincts.

RELATED: EBO Exam Preparation

The CME Process at Wills Eye Hospital Ophthalmology Review Course

Once you finish the modules, claiming your CME credit is simple. You attest to participation, complete an evaluation, and receive your certificate. Done. You can still revisit the videos until January 31, 2024, making this a great reference tool throughout the year.

The 20205 Wills Eye Hospital Ophthalmology Review Course

The 2025 Wills Eye Hospital Ophthalmology Review Course is now available and continues the tradition of excellence. With updated lectures and the same high-quality structure, it’s an outstanding resource for every ophthalmologist.

Click here to sign up

Whether you're preparing for certification, brushing up for daily practice, or reigniting your love of learning, I can wholeheartedly recommend this course.

MORE ONLINE LEARNING RESOURCES: Ophthalmology Online Learning Resources: The Ultimate Guide