Optometrist
Optometrists test for vision problems and diagnose diseases and disorders of the eye. They also write prescriptions for eyeglasses and contact lenses as well as therapeutic drugs and other non-surgical treatments. Some optometrists are involved with fitting eyeglasses and contact lenses as well.
The Cool Things They Do:
- Examine and test patients’ eyes using ophthalmoscopes, biomicroscopes and other specialized instruments
- Diagnose vision problems and eye diseases and refer patients to ophthalmologists or other physicians and surgeons when ocular or other diseases are found
- Recommend treatments to conserve, improve and correct vision and other eye disorders
- Prescribe and fit eyeglasses and contact lenses, and teach patients about the use and care of these products
Working Conditions:
Most optometrists are self-employed and work in office environments or examining rooms. They usually work with opticians, who may complete supervised pre-testing procedures. Although they may work weekends or evenings to accommodate patients’ schedules, they often have a great deal of flexibility in determining working hours.
Most Optometrists Work In:
- Private practices
- Department and optical stores
- Hospitals
- Manufacturing companies that make safety glasses for various industries
Personal Characteristics/Skills:
- Patience
- Ability to listen and communicate effectively
- Ability to operate specialized instruments and analyze information
- Spatial and form perception required for interpreting results and identifying visual defects
- Capable of instilling confidence
- Strong interpersonal skills
- Problem-solving skills
- Business knowledge and training helpful
Education and Training Required:
2 years University or Bachelor of Science Degree and Doctor of Optometry degree
Length of Study/Training : 7-8 years post-secondary
Certification (s):
National : the Canadian Standard Assessment in optometry
Ontario : Licensing with College of Optometrists of Ontario
Helpful High School Courses:
- Math
- Biology
- Chemistry
- Physics
- English
Employment Prospects - GOOD
Canada’s growing and aging population should require more care and more Canadians will have insurance for these services. The rate of retirement and employee turnover will likely be more than twice the average, creating more jobs than there are people to fill them.
Earnings:
Average annual salary: $50,000 to over $100,000 depending on experience, specialization, and geographic location.
More Information:
Canadian Association of Optometrists
http://www.opto.ca
College of Optometrists of Ontario
http://www.collegeoptom.on.ca
School of Optometry - University of Waterloo
http://www.optometry.uwaterloo.ca
Optometry Electronic Library, University of Waterloo
http://www.lib.uwaterloo.ca/discipline/opt/index.html
Canadian Association of Optometry Students
http://www.optometry.uwaterloo.ca/~caos/caos.htm
American Optometric Association
http://www.aoanet.org
Future Optometrists (US)
http://www.futureoptometrist.com
Job Futures: Optometrists, Chiropractors and Other Health Diagnosing and Treating Professionals
http://jobfutures.ca/noc/312.shtml
Note:
If you would like further information on any of these careers, be sure to ask your teacher or guidance counsellor.
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