Optometrist

Optometrist

Alt Names: Doctor of Optometry, Eye Doctor (referred to by the public), OD

Career Description

Optometrists are specialists in all things vision related. Their main duty is to perform exams in order to detect any diseases, disorders, or dysfunctions related to the eyes from there, they will treat, diagnose, and check-up on progress (or regression) of the issue.

Job Responsibilities

  • Checks, treats, and manages all vision related issues for diseases, disorders, and dysfunctions

  • Explain how to clean and wear contact lenses

  • Provide patients with necessary eyewear such as contacts, and glasses

  • Provide medications for eyes

  • Counsel patients on eye health

  • Provide pre- and postoperative care to patients undergoing eye surgery

Education & Training

  • Bachelor’s Degree from accredited college or university

  • Doctorates Degree in Optometry

  • Classroom & clinical training under supervision of licensed optometrist

Important Courses & Info:

License and/or Certification

  • Earn Doctor of Optometry (O.D.) license in Optometry from accredited program

Salary

2010 Median: $94,990 [Source: bls.gov]

Valuable Skill & Qualities

This occupation is good for people who are:

  • Good communicators
  • Patient
  • Self-motivated
  • Critical thinkers
  • Empathetic

Work Environment/Setting

Private offices, Retail Stores & Malls, Doctors Offices, Outpatient Clinics