How To Get A Job As An Optometrist
Optometrists work in private practice, group practices, chain stores, hospitals and other community facilities. They usually work regular hours but the hours may be long, due to the needs of clients. There are few occasions when an Optometrist is required to deal with an emergency.
This is a very lucrative, in-demand career.
Successful Optometrist are detail oriented, self-motivated, have excellent manual dexterity, are interested in science, and have good business skills. They are patient, have good communication skills, and a desire to help people.
Optometrists are primarily involved in helping patients maintain healthy eyes and optimum vision. To do this they undertake a complete visual inspection of the eyes and perform numerous tests, working with a variety of complex equipment.
Duties of an Optometrist involve taking patient histories, and examining the eyes visual acuity and any evidence of disease and abnormalities. The eyes indicate the presence of such things as cataracts, glaucoma, hypertension, and diabetes.
If they diagnose vision problems, they may prescribe corrective lenses or contacts, or, if necessary, refer patients to ophthalmologists or other specialists, for more intense examination and treatment. Optometrists, in private practice, may also perform supervisory and management duties, meet with suppliers, and keep patient records.
Education
In order to become an Optometrist, candidates must first obtain a Bachelors’ degree. Courses taken should include English, chemistry, mathematics, physics, and biology, as well as any other related subjects.
Candidates are then required to pass the Optometry Admissions Test. Some undergraduates take this course in order to later repeat it and improve their marks. Be aware that admission requirements for Optometry Schools may vary between states so check with your state school to ensure that you are properly prepared. There is intense competition for entry into these schools.
Once the Optometry Admissions Test has been completed, students must undertake a four year training course at an accredited School of Optometry. Courses here will include such subjects as pharmacology, biochemistry, systemic diseases, and clinical training in the diagnosis and treatment of eye disorders. Graduation will obtain students the title of Doctor of Optometry.
All states require Optometrists to be licensed. To obtain a license, Optometrists must pass a written and oral exam. These exams vary from state to state. In order to maintain a license, Optometrists must complete programs of continuing education.
With additional education, Optometrist may choose to specialize in areas such as ocular disease, and geriatric or pediatric optometry. Those who wish to go into research must obtain a Ph.D. degree.
