The first year, the PGY-1 (or internship), consists of training in fields other than ophthalmology.
- The resident will experience specialties such as internal medicine, neurology, pediatrics, surgery, family practice, or emergency medicine.
- At least six months of the PGY-1 must give the resident responsibility for direct patient care.
- The remaining three to fours of the residency must provide at least 36 months of formal training in ophthalmology.