152W00000X Optometrist
- Definition
- Doctors of optometry (ODs) 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. 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.
- Grouping
- Eye and Vision Services Providers
- Classification
- Optometrist
- Section
- Individual
- Notes
- Source: American Optometric Association (AOA), approved by the AOA's Board of Trustees, June 21, 2005. [7/1/2006: definition modified]
Specializations
152WC0802X
Corneal and Contact Management Optometrist
A healthcare provider who specializes in fitting contact lenses and managing corneal health. They assess the eye’s surface to ensure safe and comfortable contact lens wear, provide ongoing evaluations, and treat conditions like dry eyes, corneal infections, and irritation related to contact lenses. Patients can expect expert guidance on lens selection, care instructions, and treatment for any problems affecting their ability to wear contacts safely.
152WL0500X
Low Vision Rehabilitation Optometrist
A healthcare provider who helps people with significant vision loss improve their ability to see and perform daily activities. They assess how well you see, recommend and fit special glasses or devices, and create personalized plans to make the most of your remaining vision. Common conditions they help with include macular degeneration, diabetic eye disease, and glaucoma. Patients can expect support in using vision aids and learning new strategies for reading, mobility, and self-care.
152WX0102X
Occupational Vision Optometrist
A healthcare provider who specializes in evaluating and managing vision and eye health related to the workplace. They assess how work environments affect your eyes, help prevent and treat eye strain, and recommend solutions for issues like computer vision syndrome, eye injuries, and the need for protective eyewear. Patients can expect advice on improving visual comfort and safety at work, as well as prescription of glasses or contacts suited for specific job tasks.
152WP0200X
Pediatric Optometrist
A healthcare provider who specializes in caring for children’s eyes, a pediatric optometrist checks vision, tests for eye problems, prescribes glasses if needed, and monitors overall eye health in infants, children, and teenagers. Common conditions they address include lazy eye, crossed eyes, vision problems, and eye infections. Patients can expect eye exams, vision screenings, and guidance on eye care for growing children.
152WS0006X
Sports Vision Optometrist
A healthcare provider who specializes in evaluating and improving athletes’ vision to help them perform better in their sport. They provide eye exams tailored to sports needs, prescribe corrective lenses or contacts, fit protective sports eyewear, and offer training to improve visual skills like tracking, depth perception, and reaction time. Patients can expect personalized care to prevent eye injuries and enhance visual performance during athletic activities.
152WV0400X
Vision Therapy Optometrist
A healthcare provider who specializes in assessing and treating vision problems that affect how the eyes work together. They create personalized vision therapy programs to help improve focus, eye coordination, tracking, and visual processing. Commonly, they help patients with lazy eye (amblyopia), crossed eyes (strabismus), double vision, reading difficulties, and visual issues after brain injuries. Patients can expect regular therapy sessions using exercises, activities, and special tools to strengthen and improve visual skills.