How to become an optometrist and orthoptist

Diagnose, manage and treat conditions and diseases pertaining to the human eye.

What does an optometrist and orthoptist do?

Optometrists and Orthoptists diagnose, manage and treat conditions and diseases pertaining to the human eye. Optometrists prescribe corrective lenses and provide treatment. Orthoptists specialise in treating incorrect eye movements such as "lazy eye".

Duties and tasks

  • Advise patients on eye care.
  • Prescribe medication to treat eye infections or diseases.
  • Prescribe therapeutic procedures to correct vision.
  • Prescribe, supplies, fits and adjusts eyeglasses and contact lenses.
  • Provide pre- and post-operative care for patients undergoing eye surgery.
  • Use observation, instruments and pharmaceutical agents to examine eyes.

Industry bodies

Related jobs

  • Eye specialist
  • Neuro-ophthalmologist
  • Ophthalmologist
  • Paediatric eye specialist
  • Physician
  • Surgeon
  • Visual rehabilitation specialist

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