Optometrists work with people in the examination, testing, diagnosis and treatment of eye diseases and vision problems. Optometrists are Primary Health Care Providers and are licensed by State laws to diagnose as well as treat ocular disease. They work as part of a multi-disciplinary team to provide total health care to their patients. In addition to ocular health examinations, they check for things such as depth perception, eye coordination, prescribe glasses or contact lenses and provide vision training.
Most optometrists work in general practice.
However, some choose to specialize by working only with children or with the elderly. Upon completion of the degree from a college of optometry, state board examinations are required. National board examinations are written by students beginning their second year of optometry school. Some choose to obtain additional experience by completing post-graduate resident training. Acceptance to most schools of optometry require that a minimum of 90 college credits be completed.