What is an optometrist?

Doctors of Optometry are independent primary health care providers who examine, diagnose, treat and manage diseases and disorders of the visual system, the eye and associated structures as well as diagnose related systemic conditions. Optometrists examine the internal and external structure of the eyes to diagnose eye diseases like glaucoma, cataracts and retinal disorders; systemic diseases like hypertension and diabetes; and vision conditions like nearsightedness, farsightedness, astigmatism and presbyopia. Optometrists also do testing to determine the patient's ability to focus and coordinate the eyes, and to judge depth and see colors accurately. They prescribe eyeglasses and contact lenses, low vision aids, vision therapy and medicines to treat eye diseases. As primary eye care providers, optometrists are an integral part of the health care team and an entry point into the health care system. They are skilled in the co-management of care that affects the eye health and vision of t ... more

Optometrists are primary eye care doctors that have completed four years of undergraduate studies and four years of optometry school. Some optometrists undergo an additional year in specialty residency or fellowship training. An optometrist spends a minimum of four years studying only the eye. They examine, diagnose, treat, and manage diseases and disorders of the visual system, the eye, and associated structures as well as diagnose related systemic conditions. In all 50 states, optometrists prescribe pharmaceuticals for treating eye disease. In refractive surgery, optometrists provide pre- and postoperative care. An optometrist's training in the art and science of clinical optics provides a strong background for measuring the refractive error of the eye, both before and after refractive surgery. ... more

An optometrist is a doctor of optometry (OD) who is trained to examine, diagnose, treat and manage disorders that affect the eye or vision. Optometrists detect and diagnose eye diseases such as glaucoma, cataracts, retinal disorders, lid disorders and infections and injuries of the eyes. Optometrists prescribe medications to treat eye diseases. Optometrists evaluate and treat vision conditions such as nearsightedness, farsightedness, astigmatism and presbyopia. Optometrists perform minor surgical procedures such as removing foreign objects from the eye. Optometrists provide pre and post-operative care expecially for cataract, refractive, laser and glaucoma patients. ... more