Exploring Health Professions

Optometry

Doctors of optometry (O.D.'s) are primary health care providers who diagnose, manage, and treat conditions and diseases of the human eye and visual system as regulated by state law. They are the major providers of visual care in America today. Optometrists provide treatment by prescribing ophthalmic lenses, contact lenses or other optical aids, and provide vision therapy when indicated to preserve or restore maximum efficiency of vision.

There are seventeen schools of optometry throughout the U.S. Applicants must complete the prerequisite science courses (which are virtually identical to the premed requirements) and take the OCAT standardized test. The program that leads to the O.D. is a four year program after which the graduate can begin practicing as an optometrist.

For more information, contact the Association of Schools and Colleges of Optometry, 6110 Executive Blvd., Suite 510, Rockville,MD 20852, (301) 231-5944, www.opted.org.