Optometry As a
Career
 Doctors of Optometry are
independent primary health care providers who specialize in the diagnosis,
treatment, and management of diseases and disorders of the visual system, the
eye and associated structures, as well as the diagnosis of related systemic
conditions. Among the types of treatment optometrists use are:
- prescription glasses
- contact lenses
- vision therapy
- low vision aids
- pharmaceutical agents for
the treatment of ocular disease
During an examination, the
Doctor of Optometry also assesses general health conditions. Diabetes, high
blood pressure, and arteriosclerosis are often detected during a vision
examination. The diagnosis of systemic manifestations of ocular disease is
necessary to preserve and enhance the patient’s quality of life. When
appropriate, the optometrist refers patients to other health care professionals
and frequently works with them in co-managing the patient’s condition.
Vision constantly changes
throughout a person’s lifetime and, as it does, vision care needs change as
well. Doctors of Optometry provide optometric examinations and treatment which
may prevent a patient’s vision problem from developing into a serious vision
impairment.
Those who choose optometry
enjoy challenging and rewarding careers. An optometrist may help a child whose
school work is hindered by visual problems, a worker whose vision problem causes
safety hazards on the job, or an elderly patient who may have needlessly given
up reading.
Doctors of Optometry are the major
providers of primary eye care in America, with 35,855 optometrists practicing in 6,461
communities nationwide. In over 3,500 of these communities, optometrists are the only
primary vision care providers.
The type of practice setting
which the optometrist may enter is also expanding. While private solo practice
is still the predominant mode of practice, more optometrists are entering into
partnerships or group practices with other optometrists or other health care
providers. Health maintenance organizations, the military, Veterans’
Administration Medical Centers and hospitals offer optometrists unique
opportunities to be an integral part of the health care delivery team.
The Doctor of Optometry
enjoys the benefits of financial security, independence, and prominent status in
the community. The 2005 American Optometric Association Economic Survey reported
that the mean net income for optometrists in 2004 was $136,898.
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