Doctors of optometry must complete a bachelor’s degree and undergo additional training in an optometry program. The training program lasts for four years. At the end of the optometry program, they receive a Doctor of Optometry degree. Then, optometrists can diagnose and treat various eye conditions. Learn more about optometrists.
An overview of optometry
An optometrist’s job is to manage people’s eye health. Optometrists examine the eyes to look for vision problems and eye diseases. Optometrists can treat vision problems with eyeglasses and contact lenses. These eye doctors can also treat some eye conditions. Optometrists can even work with ophthalmologists to provide pre- and post-operative care and offer referrals when necessary. Discover the various services that optometrists provide.
Vision checks
Patients go to optometrists to receive annual vision exams. Eye exams at an optometry are recommended even if patients can see without any issues. Eye doctors look for refractive errors and provide prescriptions for corrective lenses if needed. Optometrists also fit patients for contact lenses. Those who have astigmatism might require multiple fittings.
Exams to check for eye problems
Optometrists also conduct exams to check issues with the eyes. Issues include glaucoma, macular degeneration, diabetic eye disease and conjunctivitis. Optometrists run a series of tests to check for these problems. Optometrists also take the medical histories of the patients to determine the risk for problems such as diabetic eye disease.
Treat diseases
Many people do not realize that optometrists can also treat different eye diseases. Optometrists cannot provide surgery. However, these doctors can treat countless issues ranging from pink eye to glaucoma. Also, optometrists continue to examine the eyes during treatment to ensure it is working. This type of care protects the eyesight.
Provide pre- and post-operative care
Ophthalmologists offer eye surgeries for various issues. These include glaucoma and cataracts. Patients often receive pre- and post-operative care from optometrists, though. Optometrists work closely with ophthalmologists when patients undergo surgery.
Optometrists help patients prepare for the surgery. This includes explaining what to expect during and after the procedure. Then, optometrists evaluate patients after the surgery. If any post-operative issues arise, optometrists deal with them. Many patients prefer receiving pre- and post-operative care from optometrists since they already have relationships with their eye doctors.
Provide referrals
People who have eye conditions that require surgery can get referrals from an optometrist. The optometrist will begin by examining the eyes. After the condition is found, the optometrist can provide a list of referrals for ophthalmologists that treat the specific condition. This makes it much easier for patients to find eye surgeons that can help them.
Annual exams are critical to eye health
You should maintain annual appointments with your optometrist. Your eye doctor will check for refractive errors and problems with your eyes, such as glaucoma. Your eye doctor can treat some eye diseases and issues and provide pre- and post-operative care if you need eye surgery. These services allow you to maintain your vision and overall eye health.
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