How you can become an Optometrist
My younger patients often ask me, “What is the process to become an Optometrist?” I want to be like you when I grow up. I decided to write this blog to help describe our profession and the 5 steps to become an optometrist.
Who are Optometrists?
According to the American Optometric Association (AOA), “Doctors of Optometry (O.D.s or optometrists) are the primary health care professionals for the eye. Optometrists examine, diagnose, treat, and manage diseases, injuries, and disorders of the visual system, the eye, and associated structures as well as identify related systemic conditions affecting the eye:
• Doctors of Optometry prescribe medications, low vision rehabilitation, vision therapy, spectacle lenses, contact lenses, and perform certain surgical procedures.
• Optometrists counsel their patients regarding surgical and non-surgical options that meet their visual needs related to their occupations, avocations, and lifestyle.
• An optometrist has completed pre-professional undergraduate education in a college or university and four years of professional education at a college of optometry, leading to the doctor of optometry (O.D.) degree. Some optometrists complete an optional residency in a specific area of practice.
• Optometrists are eye health care professionals state-licensed to diagnose and treat diseases and disorders of the eye and visual system.”
5 Steps to be an Optometrist
Step 1. Get your high school diploma or pass your General Education Development (GED) exam.
Step 2. Obtain a bachelor’s degree from an accredited college/univerty.
Step 3. Take your Optometry Admission Test (OAT).
Step 4. Complete your Doctor of Optometry degree from an accredited institution such as New England College of Optometry.
Step s. Get your license in the State your want to practice Optometry.
Why I become an Optometrists
I hope that this blog clarify what Optometrists do and the 5 steps to become one if you wish to pursue this career.
I would like to hear from you and get your feedback on what topics you would like me to discuss on future blogs, please post your comment below. For any question on EYE EXAM and related topics, you can call my office at 407-292-9812.
I look forward to hearing from you!
Dr. Lauretta Justin
