Optometrist

An optometrist is a doctor whose specialization is vision. An optometrist can diagnose vision concerns, treat vision concerns and manage vision concerns. An optometrist cannot perform eye surgery or prescribe most drugs. The term, optometrist, was first coined by Edmund Landholt in 1886, and meant ‘fitter of glasses’.

Optometrists are the main providers of vision care in the U.S. They examine people’s eyes to diagnose vision problems, such as nearsightedness (myopia), farsightedness (hyperopia) and astigmatism. They also test patients’ depth and color perception as well as their ability to focus and coordinate their eyes. Optometrists can prescribe and fit eyeglasses or contact lenses; they may also prescribe and/or provide such treatments as vision therapy or low-vision rehabilitation.

Optometrists also test for glaucoma diagnosis and other eye diseases and diagnose conditions caused by systemic diseases such as diabetes and high blood pressure. They then refer patients to other health practitioners, usually MDs, as necessary. They can administer a limited number of drugs to help diagnoses various vision problems as well as to treat diseases of the eye. Optometrists often provide preoperative and postoperative care to cataract patients and to patients who have had laser vision correction or other eye surgery.

Education

The first schools of optometry in the United States were established in 1850-1900. Following four years of undergraduate study at an accredited college or university, optometry school consists of four years of study focusing on the eye, vision, pharmacology and systemic diseases that affect the eye. Optometry programs include classroom and laboratory study of health and visual sciences and clinical training in the diagnosis and treatment of eye disorders. There are currently 17 schools of optometry in the United States. Upon graduation from optometry school, an optometrist holds the degree of Doctor of Optometry (O.D., which is not an MD). Some optometrists go on to complete one-to-two-year residencies with training in a specific sub-specialty such as pediatrics (children), geriatrics (elderly), contact lens specialization, ocular disease or neuro-optometry. All optometrists are required to fulfill continuing education requirements to stay current on the latest standards of care.

Optometry

Optometry is one of three eye care professions; the others are ophthalmology, a branch of medicine and orthoptics, a sub-specialty of ophthalmology that deals mainly with strabismus (a condition where the eyes are not properly aligned with each other).

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