Optometry is a field of healthcare that deals with the diagnosis, treatment, and management of vision-related problems. It is a vital area of healthcare that has become increasingly important in recent years due to the growing prevalence of eye diseases and conditions. If you’re interested in pursuing a career in optometry or simply want to learn more about this field, taking an optometry course is an excellent option.

What is optometry?

Optometrists are trained professionals who specialize in the correction of refractive errors, such as near-sightedness, farsightedness, and astigmatism, and the detection and management of eye diseases and conditions, such as glaucoma, cataracts, and macular degeneration.

The history of optometry dates back to the 19th century, with the first optometry school being established in the United States in 1904. Since then, optometry has become a highly specialized field of healthcare, with a scope of practice that includes the prescription of glasses and contact lenses, the diagnosis and management of eye diseases and conditions, and the co-management of patients with other healthcare professionals.

Why study optometry?

If you’re considering a career in healthcare, optometry is an excellent option for several reasons. Firstly, optometry is a highly in-demand field, with a projected growth rate of 10% between 2018 and 2028, according to the US Bureau of Labor Statistics. This growth is attributed to the aging population, which is at a higher risk of developing eye diseases and conditions.

Secondly, optometry is a well-paying profession, with a median annual salary of $120,000 in the United States. The salary prospects are even higher for those who specialize in areas such as paediatric optometry, low vision rehabilitation, and sports vision.

Lastly, optometry is a highly rewarding field that allows you to make a significant impact on people’s lives. By helping patients improve their vision and manage their eye health, optometrists play a crucial role in enhancing their quality of life

What do you learn in an optometry course?

An optometry course is designed to provide students with a comprehensive understanding of the human visual system, vision correction techniques, and the diagnosis and management of eye diseases and conditions. Here are some of the topics you can expect to cover in an optometry course:

1. Vision correction techniques

This includes the prescription of glasses and contact lenses, as well as the fitting of specialty lenses such as orthokeratology lenses, which are used to correct refractive errors while the patient sleeps.

1. Eye diseases and conditions

This includes the detection and management of conditions such as glaucoma, cataracts, macular degeneration, diabetic retinopathy, and dry eye syndrome.

1. Contact lens fitting

This involves the selection and fitting of contact lenses for patients with various needs, such as those with astigmatism, presbyopia, and corneal irregularities.

1. Diagnostic procedures

This includes various tests and procedures, such as visual acuity tests, refraction tests, slit-lamp examinations, and dilated eye exams, which are used to detect and diagnose eye diseases and conditions.