An optometrist provides primary vision care including eye examinations, vision assessment, and optical prescriptions. Optometrists detect eye diseases, manage certain ocular conditions, and prescribe corrective eyewear.
Optometrists complete undergraduate education followed by a four-year OD program covering visual science, ocular pathology, and clinical care. After board certification, some pursue residency training in pediatric vision, low vision rehabilitation, or other specialties.
An Optometrist's clinical services include:
- Emphasizes visual function, ocular health, and the optical system
- Performs complete visual assessments, evaluates ocular and visual function, prescribes corrective lenses, identifies eye pathology
- Manages refractive disorders (myopia, hyperopia), ocular surface disease, elevated intraocular pressure, lens opacities, and diabetic ocular complications
- Provides optical correction (eyeglasses, contact lenses), medicated eye drops, vision rehabilitation, and ophthalmology referrals
- Known as: OD, eye care provider, vision specialist
