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 that affects the eye health and vision of their patients and an excellent source of referral to other health care professionals. Optometrists work in private practices, multidisciplinary medical practices, hospitals, teaching institutions, research positions, community health centers, and the ophthalmic industry, while others choose careers in the military, public health, or government service. There is a need for optometrists in all types of practice as well as in all parts of the country.
All optometrists provide general eye and vision care.
Most optometrists are self-employed, receive relatively few emergency calls, and can establish a flexible working schedule which allows them to combine a fulfilling professional career with a very satisfying personal life. Although income varies based on the types of practice, optometrists earn a very comfortable living. Optometry is rated as one of the top ten income-earning professions in the country. Like all health care professionals, optometrists derive great personal satisfaction from their daily professional life. They are highly regarded in their communities for their contributions to the health and welfare of the people.