Optometrist

Optometrist rank #11 in Best Health Care Jobs. Jobs are ranked according to their ability to offer an elusive mix of factors.

#11inBest Health Care Jobs

#22inBest Paying Jobs

#51inThe 100 Best Jobs

An optometrist is a healthcare professional who specializes in the care of the eyes and vision. They are trained and licensed to diagnose, treat, and manage a wide range of eye and vision conditions, as well as prescribe corrective lenses and other visual aids. Optometrists play a crucial role in helping people maintain good eye health and clear vision. Optometrists typically perform comprehensive eye exams to assess the overall health of the eyes and to detect any vision problems or eye diseases. These exams may include testing visual acuity, assessing eye coordination and focusing abilities, and examining the internal and external structures of the eyes. Based on their findings, optometrists can diagnose and treat various conditions such as nearsightedness, farsightedness, astigmatism, and presbyopia. They may also identify and manage eye diseases such as glaucoma, cataracts, and macular degeneration. In addition to diagnosing and treating eye conditions, optometrists are also qualified to prescribe and fit corrective lenses, including eyeglasses and contact lenses. They can provide personalized recommendations for the most suitable lenses based on a patient's specific needs, lifestyle, and visual requirements. Optometrists may also provide pre- and post-operative care for patients undergoing eye surgeries, such as LASIK or cataract surgery. They work closely with ophthalmologists, who are medical doctors specializing in eye and vision care, to ensure comprehensive and coordinated treatment for their patients. Overall, optometrists are dedicated to promoting and maintaining optimal eye health and vision for their patients. They play a vital role in helping people of all ages to enjoy clear and comfortable vision, and in identifying and managing eye conditions before they can cause permanent damage to the eyes.

Becoming an optometrist requires a dedication to education and a passion for helping others maintain their vision and eye health. The first step to becoming an optometrist is to complete a bachelor's degree, typically in a science-related field such as biology or chemistry. After completing a bachelor's degree, aspiring optometrists must then complete a Doctor of Optometry (OD) program at an accredited optometry school.During optometry school, students will study subjects such as ocular anatomy, physiology, optics, and pharmacology. They will also gain practical experience through clinical rotations and internships, where they will work directly with patients under the supervision of licensed optometrists.After graduating from optometry school, individuals must pass the national board exams to become licensed to practice optometry. Some optometrists may also choose to complete a residency program to gain specialized training in areas such as pediatric optometry, low vision rehabilitation, or ocular disease.Once licensed, optometrists can provide a range of eye care services, including prescribing corrective lenses, diagnosing and treating eye diseases, and providing pre- and post-operative care for patients undergoing eye surgeries. Continuing education is also required to maintain licensure and stay current with advancements in the field of optometry.