Optometrists

Diagnose, manage, and treat conditions and diseases of the human eye and visual system. Examine eyes and visual system, diagnose problems or impairments, prescribe corrective lenses, and provide treatment. May prescribe therapeutic drugs to treat specific eye conditions.

Median Annual Wage: $101,410

Education: Doctoral degree (91%); Professional degree (9%)

Projected Growth: Much faster than average (22% or higher)

Related Job Titles: Optometrist; Doctor of Optometry (OD); Chief, Optometry Service; Eye Clinic Manager; Independent Contractor; Optometrist, Owner; Optometrist, President/Practice Owner; Optometrist/Practice Owner

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Source: O*NET OnLine information for Optometrists.

More Healthcare Practitioners and Technical Careers

  • Prescribe, supply, fit and adjust eyeglasses, contact lenses and other vision aids.
  • Analyze test results and develop a treatment plan.
  • Prescribe medications to treat eye diseases if state laws permit.
  • Remove foreign bodies from the eye.
  • Prescribe therapeutic procedures to correct or conserve vision.
  • Educate and counsel patients on contact lens care, visual hygiene, lighting arrangements and safety factors.
  • Consult with and refer patients to ophthalmologist or other health care practitioner if additional medical treatment is determined necessary.
  • Provide patients undergoing eye surgeries, such as cataract and laser vision correction, with pre- and post-operative care.
  • Provide vision therapy and low vision rehabilitation.

Source: O*NET OnLine information for Optometrists.

  • Critical Thinking - Using logic and reasoning to identify the strengths and weaknesses of alternative solutions, conclusions or approaches to problems.
  • Speaking - Talking to others to convey information effectively.
  • Science - Using scientific rules and methods to solve problems.
  • Writing - Communicating effectively in writing as appropriate for the needs of the audience.
  • Reading Comprehension - Understanding written sentences and paragraphs in work related documents.
  • Social Perceptiveness - Being aware of others' reactions and understanding why they react as they do.
  • Active Learning - Understanding the implications of new information for both current and future problem-solving and decision-making.
  • Judgment and Decision Making - Considering the relative costs and benefits of potential actions to choose the most appropriate one.
  • Complex Problem Solving - Identifying complex problems and reviewing related information to develop and evaluate options and implement solutions.

Source: O*NET OnLine information for Optometrists.

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