Contact us

For more information, please contact our program coordinator.

Larissa Staudacher

(727) 992-7163

How to apply

  • ACGME ID: 2401100184
  • SF Match Program: 5609

How to Apply

Welcome from our program director

Welcome to the HCA Florida Bayonet Point Hospital Ophthalmology Residency Program in Hudson, Florida. The program's goal is to offer residents a rewarding, educational environment where ophthalmology residents receive individualized learning opportunities to maximize their full potential as clinicians, educators and healthcare leaders.

Welcome Letter

Program overview

Our ophthalmology residency is a three-year program accredited by the ACGME for a total of six residents per academic year, with a maximum of two residents in each PGY2, PGY3 and PGY4 level.

The program combines clinical and surgical training with strong didactics to provide the highest level of training in ophthalmology.

  • Bayonet Point Hospital with Abita Eye Group is the program's surgical center
  • Rotations available in glaucoma, retina, pediatric ophthalmology and neuro-ophthalmology
  • Residents round on Trauma Call at HCA Florida Bayonet Point Hospital
  • 20 days of vacation

Our program director and staff

Our team is comprised of skilled experts with deep experience and knowledge from which residents and fellows can benefit.

Dr. Austin Bach

Program Director

Dr. Austin Bach is a renowned ophthalmologist with a distinguished career marked by excellence in patient care, academia, and medical education. Known for his expertise in emergency and trauma ophthalmology, Dr. Bach holds one of the busiest practices in the entire country, with a commitment to delivering exceptional care.

Dr. Bach began with a strong academic foundation. He obtained his Bachelor of Arts degree in Biology from Yeshiva University. Building upon this foundation, he pursued further education at Tufts University in Boston, where he earned a Master's degree in Public Health with a focus on Health Services Management and Policy. This background provided him with a comprehensive understanding of healthcare systems and management principles.

Dr. Bach pursued his medical degree at Nova Southeastern University, specializing in osteopathic medicine. Following his medical education, he completed an internship and residency in ophthalmology at Larkin Community Hospital.

Dr. Bach pursued postgraduate training at the prestigious Bascom Palmer Eye Institute. During this time, he also served as a clinical instructor, imparting his knowledge and skills to the next generation of ophthalmologists.

Dr. Bach's commitment to advancing the field of ophthalmology extends beyond clinical practice. He holds esteemed academic appointments as an Assistant Professor at the University of South Florida and a Clinical Assistant Professor at Nova Southeastern University. In these roles, he not only provides exceptional patient care but also plays a pivotal role in shaping the future of ophthalmology through his mentorship and instruction.

Dr. Bach's impact extends beyond his clinical practice and academic pursuits. He is deeply committed to medical education and plays a pivotal role in training ophthalmology residents, specializing in pediatric ophthalmology and trauma. Through his guidance and mentorship, he instills in his students the same passion for excellence and dedication to patient care that has defined his career.

Our core faculty

  • Mont J. Cartwright, MD
  • Thomas Croley, MD

View All Our Faculty

Dr. Austin Bach

Mission statement

The HCA Florida Bayonet Point Hospital Ophthalmology Residency Program’s mission is to develop the next generation of physicians and physician leaders.

As a part of HCA Healthcare, we are driven by a single mission: Above all else, we are committed to the care and improvement of human life.

This program is designed to offer residents a rewarding, educational environment where residents are provided individualized learning opportunities by faculty and staff who support and sustain one another throughout quality care delivery. Our faculty are committed to ensuring the residents' clinical experience and educational needs are fulfilled while expanding residents’ perspectives to be inclusive of cultures, values and ideals.