Optometrist
Field of Study — Vision
Optometrists (Doctors of Optometry) diagnose and treat eye health and vision problems. Some optometrists specialize in geriatric or pediatric vision care. Others rehabilitate the partially-sighted using microscopic or telescopic lenses. Some specialize in occupational vision, contact lenses, sports vision or vision therapy.
Optometrists:
- diagnose and treat eye health and vision problems
- examine the vision system for proper depth and color perception.
- ability to focus and coordinate eye movements and degree of peripheral (side) vision.
- prescribe vision therapy.
- treat eye diseases with drugs.
- prescribe and dispense eyeglasses and contact lenses.
- provide examination and treatment services for occupational and sports vision, low-vision (partially-sighted) and vision-related learning disabilities.
- refer patients to other medical practitioners as needed.
Most optometrists are self-employed, but some work for universities, optical manufacturers, government health agencies, hospitals or group practices.
Educational Requirements
Students interested in becoming a doctor of optometry generally take a pre-optometry curriculum at their undergraduate college or university, with emphasis on science and math courses.
An extensive, clinically-oriented, four-year postgraduate program at a school or college of optometry culminates with a doctor of optometry degree. License to practice additionally requires passing a series of national board examinations and a state license examination.
Some optometrists, after earning their doctorate degree, will complete an additional one-year residency program.
Educational Institutions
No programs are offered in Virginia. However, the Commonwealth of Virginia has contract agreements with schools and colleges of optometry in Pennsylvania, Tennessee and Alabama. These contract agreements guarantee a minimum number of Virginia residents have an opportunity to earn their doctor of optomety degree at select institutions, some offering in-state or reduced tuition to Virginia residents.Professional Associations
- American Optometric Association
243 N. Lindbergh Blvd.
St. Louis, MO 63141
(314) 991-4100
http://www.aoanet.org - Virginia Optometric Association
118 N. 8th St.
Richmond, VA 23219-2306
(804) 643-0309