Optometrists

Tasks Include:

• Examine eyes, using observation, instruments and pharmaceutical agents, to determine visual acuity and perception, focus and coordination and to diagnose diseases and other abnormalities such as glaucoma or color blindness.
• Prescribe medications to treat eye diseases if state laws permit.
• Prescribe, supply, fit and adjust eyeglasses, contact lenses and other vision aids.
• Analyze test results and develop a treatment plan.
• Educate and counsel patients on contact lens care, visual hygiene, lighting arrangements and safety factors.
• Remove foreign bodies from the eye.
• Consult with and refer patients to ophthalmologist or other health care practitioner if additional medical treatment is determined necessary.
• Provide patients undergoing eye surgeries, such as cataract and laser vision correction, with pre- and post-operative care.
• Prescribe therapeutic procedures to correct or conserve vision.
• Provide vision therapy and low vision rehabilitation.