What is a Doctor of Optometry?
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Doctors of optometry are independent, primary health care providers who: examine, diagnose, treat and manage diseases and disorders of the visual system, the eye and associated structures, as well as diagnose related systemic conditions. Doctors of Optometry also prescribe topical and oral medications to treat these conditions.
Also called Optometrists, Doctors of Optometry examine the internal and external structure of the eyes to diagnose:
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Optometrists also do testing to determine the patient's ability to focus and coordinate the eyes, and to judge depth and see colors accurately. They prescribe eyeglasses and contact lenses, low vision aids, vision therapy and medicines to treat eye diseases.
As primary eye care providers, optometrists are an integral part of the health care team and an entry point into the health care system. They are skilled in the co-management of care, both surgical and non-surgical, that affects the eye health and vision of their patients and an excellent source of referral to other health care professionals.
Just as your dentist completes four years of undergraduate school and four years of dentistry school, an optometrist completes four years of undergraduate school and four years of optometry school, leading to the doctor of optometry (O.D.) degree. Some optometrists complete a residency emphasizing ocular disease, vision therapy, specialty contact lenses, pediatric vision, or low vision.
As primary eye care providers, optometrists are an integral part of the health care team and an entry point into the health care system. They are skilled in the co-management of care, both surgical and non-surgical, that affects the eye health and vision of their patients and an excellent source of referral to other health care professionals.
Just as your dentist completes four years of undergraduate school and four years of dentistry school, an optometrist completes four years of undergraduate school and four years of optometry school, leading to the doctor of optometry (O.D.) degree. Some optometrists complete a residency emphasizing ocular disease, vision therapy, specialty contact lenses, pediatric vision, or low vision.