Huntington VA Medical Center Student Externship Information

The student externship at the Huntington VA Medical Center is designed to give students 'real world' clinical optometric experience in a very modern, technologically-advanced clinical setting.  Students are responsible for the complete care and examination of each patient.  They examine patients independently from start to finish, including the determination of their own assessment and management plans.  They have full access to all clinical equipment as needed for the care of the patient.  Attending staff optometrists are always available for consultation at any point during the examination.  In addition, staff optometrists examine each patient and thoroughly review the entire case with the student prior to the patient's discharge from the clinic.  The Eye Clinic at the Huntington VA Medical Center is dedicated to providing outstanding care to patients while providing an excellent learning opportunity to students.

Due to the geographic location and patient demographics, ocular disease is very prevalent in patients examined at the Medical Center.  The student externship gives students a "hands-on" opportunity to manage challenging cases.  The conveniences of a hospital-based clinical practice are experienced first-hand, including access to radiology and laboratory services, patient medical records, and consultative services with other specialties.

The Eye Clinic at the Huntington VA Medical Center is completely computerized, including all patient records and photographs.  A complete medical and eye record for any patient is as close as the next computer terminal.  Each student is given his/her own fully-equipped examination room during their time at the facility.  Each room is equipped with handheld instruments, a BIO, lens set, auto-refractor and lensometer, modern slit lamp and phoropter, as well as a computer and specialized equipment which may include a Perkins tonometer or Tonopen, handheld slit lamp, and a PAM or BAT.

Students gain "hands-on" experience with the modern practice of optometry and the use of advanced diagnostic equipment including OCT, ultrasonography, digital anterior-segment and retinal photography, as well as fluorescein angiography.

In addition to patient care, students learn through academic opportunities including grand rounds, staff lectures, and conferences such as fluorescein and OCT conference.  The rotation at the Huntington VA Medical Center truly provides outstanding clinical and academic learning experience for students.  Any questions about the Student Externship Program may be directed to Dr. Sarah Cordes at Sarah.Cordes@med.va.gov or (304) 429-6755 x3892.