"Which looks clearer, lens A or lens B?" If you wear eyeglasses or contact lenses, you've heard that question many times while peering into an optical device that resembles a bloated periscope. Testing eyesight and writing prescriptions for corrective lenses are a big part of this professional's day, but there's a lot more to this exciting career than meets the eye. If you're looking for a challenging and satisfying career in a healthcare field, you're looking in the right place. As an optometrist, you'll be able to help people regain or retain their most important human sense: sight. One of the best things about practicing in this area of healthcare is that you can definitely improve most problems - even the serious ones.
Just imagine being able to tell patients whose eyesight has been fading to the point they fear they might be going blind, that you have a ready solution and they'll be able to see clearly again. Doctors of optometry are primary healthcare providers who examine, diagnose, treat, and manage diseases and disorders of the visual system. Farsightedness, nearsightedness, astigmatism, and prebyopia (stiffening of the retina) are the most common problems an optometrist looks for. They examine the internal and external structure of the eyes to diagnose diseases such as glaucoma, cataracts, retinal disorders, and conditions related to hypertension and diabetes. They also check the patient's focus, coordination, and depth and color perception. They prescribe eyeglasses, contact lenses, low vision aids, vision therapy, and medications as well as perform certain types of surgery.
Over half the population requires some kind of correctional eyewear, and everyone needs to see an optometrist regularly as part of an overall good health plan. Even people who are lucky enough to be born with good eyesight often find their eyes are negatively affected by excessive computer use, reading, head injuries, aging, or systemic diseases unrelated to the eyes. Deteriorating vision affects every area of life. If your eyesight is failing, you may not be able to work, drive, go to school, participate in sports, read a good book, or enjoy simple leisurely pleasures.Being able to help someone regain their sight so they can do all those things is very rewarding. Optometry is a dynamic career with excellent opportunities for personal growth and achievement. You can expect respect from the community and your peers, enjoy financial success, and have plenty of time outside of work to pursue personal interests. Opportunities for optometrists exist everywhere, in all types of practice.
Most optometrists are general practitioners, but there are many specialties to choose from. Pediatric and gerontology are the areas of greatest need. Optometrists work in private offices, clinics, group medical practices, hospitals, universities, the military, community health centers, research centers, and corporate settings. Americans are becoming increasingly aware that quality eye care is important for overall health and wellness. The demand for optometric services is growing. If you choose a career as a doctor of optometry, you'll be choosing a stable profession that can offer you satisfaction for a lifetime.