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:
Optometry Admission Test (OAT) provided by the Association of Schools and Colleges of Optometry
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