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Optometrist

Optometrists examine the eyes and other parts of the visual system. They also diagnose, and treat visual problems, and manage diseases, injuries, and other disorders of the eyes. They prescribe eyeglasses or contact lenses as needed.

Optometrists typically do the following:
  • Perform vision tests and analyze results
  • Diagnose sight problems, such as nearsightedness or farsightedness and eye diseases, such as glaucoma
  • Prescribe eyeglasses, contact lenses, and medications
  • Provide treatments such as vision therapy or low-vision rehabilitation
  • Provide pre- and post-operative care to patients undergoing eye surgery—for example, examining a patient’s eyes the day after surgery
  • Evaluate patients for the presence of diseases such as diabetes and refer patients to other healthcare providers as needed
  • Promote eye health by counseling patients, including explaining how to clean and wear contact lenses

Some optometrists spend much of their time providing specialized care, particularly if they are working in a group practice with other optometrists or physicians. For example, some optometrists mostly treat patients with only partial sight, a condition known as low vision. Others may focus on treating infants and children.

Many optometrists own their practice and may spend more time on general business activities such as hiring employees, ordering supplies, and marketing their business.


Optometrists also may work as postsecondary teachers, do research in optometry colleges, or work as consultants in the eye care industry.

Optometrists should not be confused with ophthalmologists or dispensing opticians. Ophthalmologists are physicians who perform eye surgery and treat eye disease in addition to examining eyes and prescribing eyeglasses and contact lenses. 
Personality & Interest

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Optometrists typically have an interest in the Doer, Thinker and Helper interest areas, according to the Holland Code framework. The Doer, interest area indicates a focus on working with tools and machines, and making or fixing practical things. The Thinker interest area indicates a focus on researching, investigating, and increasing the understanding of natural laws. The Helper interest area indicates a focus on assisting, serving, counselling, or teaching other people.

If you are not sure whether you have a Doer, or Thinker or Helper interest which might fit with a career as an optometrist, you can take a career test to measure your interests.

Optometrists should also possess the following specific qualities:

Decision-making skills. Optometrists must be able to evaluate the results of a variety of diagnostic tests and decide on the best course of treatment for a patient.


Interpersonal skills. Because they spend much of their time examining patients, optometrists must be able to help their patients feel at ease.


Speaking skills. Optometrists must be able to clearly explain eyecare instructions to their patients, as well as answer patients’ questions.
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