I wish we had this option at UAB. Yes, some of it will never again see the light of day after boards and some you will use until you retire. Alot of it does depend on your career track. If you aspire to open your own practice buying more now is a deal because you get student prices. If you go to work for someone else they will probably have all that you need. If I were you, the only pieces of equipment you really might want to buy to keep is a good BIO (binocular indirect) and maybe a good diagnostic set (ophthalmoscope/retinoscope). These items you will use everyday..esp the bio. However keep in mind that if you go to work for someone else they may have these already but you may still choose to use the one you are accustomed to. A trial lens set is very iffy because you will only need it if you open your own practice and they may be purchased good as new after you graduate. Another thing to realize is that some od's sell their practice with equipment already there. A final point would be to check online at ebay etc for used equipment to purchase. Several people bought trial lens sets here in my class (we require them 🙁) You can get a good deal on some less important items. However, esp for bio + ophthalmoscope + retinoscope, it is good to have that warranty that comes with a new piece of equipment. Also, like i said, you will use these three pieces of equipment (the ophthalmoscope less so) in your career ALL THE TIME..do not skimp on them. The other stuff is mostly plastic junk that costs a lot. eyeguy
