Optometry
What is a Doctor of Optometry?
Doctors of Optometry (ODs) are the primary health care professionals for the eye and visual system. Optometrists examine, diagnose, treat, and manage diseases, injuries, and disorders of the visual system, the eye, and associated structures, as well as identify related systemic conditions affecting the eye. ODs prescribe medications, provide low vision rehabilitation, vision therapy, spectacle lenses, contact lenses, and perform certain surgical procedures. Optometrists also counsel their patients regarding surgical and non-surgical options that meet their visual needs related to their occupations, avocations, and lifestyle. An optometrist has completed pre-professional undergraduate education in a college or university and four years of professional education at a college of optometry, leading to the Doctor of Optometry (OD) degree. Some optometrists complete an optional residency in a specific area of practice. (UIW School of Optometry Website)