Army Optometrists are independent primary health care providers who examine, diagnose, treat and manage diseases and disorders of the visual system, the eye and associated structures as well as diagnose related systemic conditions in service members, their family members, and other eligible beneficiaries. As a primary care provider, they routinely interact with health care professionals in other disciplines. Army Optometrists are the primary eye and vision care providers on the Army Health Care Team. Initial assignment is usually to a hospital in the United States or overseas working with a more experienced optometrist.
Operational assignments are also available with field units.
Army Optometrists can enjoy a purely clinical practice as a staff optometrist or Chief, Optometry Service in a hospital or field unit. Opportunities are also available to participate in humanitarian relief and assistance visits to foreign countries. Optometrists can also take on less traditional roles in aeromedical visual science research, telemedicine, residency training, vision conservation and readiness, optical fabrication laboratory management, teaching or program development. At the more senior levels, optometrists serve as consultants in a staff capacity for vision conservation and readiness, managed care, program management, and at Department of the Army and Defense levels. Have a current, full and unrestricted license to practice Optometry in the United States, U.S. territories or the District of Columbia.