Optometrists
Overview
Optometrists are eye care professionals who help people see clearly by examining eyes, diagnosing vision problems like nearsightedness or eye diseases like glaucoma, and prescribing glasses or contact lenses. They use advanced digital equipment and imaging technology to detect eye conditions and can even perform minor eye surgeries in many states. This career requires a doctorate degree in optometry and involves collaborating with other healthcare providers to ensure patients' overall health. Optometrists work in various settings from private practices to retail chains, often with flexible schedules and the opportunity to directly improve people's quality of life.
Did you know?
Becoming an optometrist requires eight years of post-secondary education including a four-year Doctor of Optometry degree, plus passing national and state licensing examinations.
At a Glance
Median Wage
$131,624 Avg/yr
Growth
Fast Growing
Top Skill
Active Learning
Key Responsibilities
- Examine eyes, using observation, instruments, and pharmaceutical agents, to determine visual acuity and perception, focus, and coordination and to diagnose diseases and other abnormalities, such as glaucoma or color blindness.
- Prescribe medications to treat eye diseases if state laws permit.
- Prescribe, supply, fit and adjust eyeglasses, contact lenses, and other vision aids.
- Consult with and refer patients to ophthalmologist or other health care practitioner if additional medical treatment is determined necessary.
- Educate and counsel patients on contact lens care, visual hygiene, lighting arrangements, and safety factors.
- Analyze test results and develop a treatment plan.
- Remove foreign bodies from the eye.
- Provide vision therapy and low-vision rehabilitation.
- Prescribe therapeutic procedures to correct or conserve vision.
- Provide patients undergoing eye surgeries, such as cataract and laser vision correction, with pre- and post-operative care.
Career Considerations
Extensive Educational Investment
Becoming an optometrist requires eight years of post-secondary education including a four-year Doctor of Optometry degree, plus passing national and state licensing examinations.
Business Management Skills
Many optometrists own private practices or work in retail environments, requiring strong business acumen alongside clinical expertise to succeed financially.
Technological Adaptation
The profession demands continuous learning to keep pace with rapidly advancing diagnostic equipment, treatment methods, and digital health integration.