What Do Optometrist Do?
Example of Optometrist Job Diagnose, manage, and treat conditions and diseases of the human eye and visual system. Examine eyes and visual system, diagnose problems or impairments, prescribe corrective lenses, and provide treatment. May prescribe therapeutic drugs to treat specific eye conditions.
Life As an Optometrist: What Do They Do?
- Prescribe medications to treat eye diseases if state laws permit.
- Analyze test results and develop a treatment plan.
- Prescribe therapeutic procedures to correct or conserve vision.
- Remove foreign bodies from the eye.
- Provide vision therapy and low vision rehabilitation.
- Educate and counsel patients on contact lens care, visual hygiene, lighting arrangements and safety factors.
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Skills Needed to be an Optometrist
Below is a list of the skills most Optometrists say are important on the job.
Critical Thinking: Using logic and reasoning to identify the strengths and weaknesses of alternative solutions, conclusions or approaches to problems.
Active Listening: Giving full attention to what other people are saying, taking time to understand the points being made, asking questions as appropriate, and not interrupting at inappropriate times.
Speaking: Talking to others to convey information effectively.
Science: Using scientific rules and methods to solve problems.
Writing: Communicating effectively in writing as appropriate for the needs of the audience.
Reading Comprehension: Understanding written sentences and paragraphs in work related documents.
Related Job Titles for this Occupation:
- Doctor of Optometry (OD)
- Optometrist/Practice Owner
- Optometry Doctor (OD)
- Optometrist, Owner
- Eye Clinic Manager
Optometrist Job Outlook
In the United States, there were 40,200 jobs for Optometrist in 2016. New jobs are being produced at a rate of 17.9% which is above the national average. The Bureau of Labor Statistics predicts 7,200 new jobs for Optometrist by 2026. Due to new job openings and attrition, there will be an average of 2,000 job openings in this field each year.
The states with the most job growth for Optometrist are Utah, Colorado, and Washington. Watch out if you plan on working in Vermont, Rhode Island, or Mississippi. These states have the worst job growth for this type of profession.
Optometrist Average Salary
The typical yearly salary for Optometrists is somewhere between $57,480 and $188,160.
Optometrists who work in North Dakota, Vermont, or Alaska, make the highest salaries.
Below is a list of the median annual salaries for Optometrists in different U.S. states.
| State | Annual Mean Salary |
|---|---|
| Alabama | $114,070 |
| Alaska | $165,640 |
| Arizona | $124,920 |
| Arkansas | $95,500 |
| California | $117,180 |
| Colorado | $132,030 |
| Connecticut | $138,140 |
| Delaware | $116,210 |
| District of Columbia | $90,140 |
| Florida | $102,060 |
| Georgia | $104,970 |
| Hawaii | $117,310 |
| Idaho | $96,070 |
| Illinois | $121,610 |
| Indiana | $113,880 |
| Iowa | $130,160 |
| Kansas | $117,840 |
| Kentucky | $114,550 |
| Louisiana | $104,360 |
| Maine | $136,510 |
| Maryland | $129,000 |
| Massachusetts | $141,890 |
| Michigan | $112,440 |
| Minnesota | $134,270 |
| Mississippi | $133,370 |
| Missouri | $114,110 |
| Montana | $110,370 |
| Nebraska | $104,010 |
| Nevada | $127,940 |
| New Hampshire | $131,180 |
| New Jersey | $114,630 |
| New Mexico | $86,870 |
| New York | $124,820 |
| North Carolina | $136,260 |
| North Dakota | $175,090 |
| Ohio | $132,400 |
| Oklahoma | $109,300 |
| Oregon | $99,560 |
| Pennsylvania | $119,820 |
| Rhode Island | $104,320 |
| South Carolina | $142,290 |
| South Dakota | $96,540 |
| Tennessee | $115,960 |
| Texas | $123,930 |
| Utah | $74,490 |
| Vermont | $170,550 |
| Virginia | $129,010 |
| Washington | $119,860 |
| West Virginia | $118,270 |
| Wisconsin | $122,310 |
| Wyoming | $135,220 |
What Tools & Technology do Optometrists Use?
Although they’re not necessarily needed for all jobs, the following technologies are used by many Optometrists:
- Microsoft Word
- Microsoft Access
- Microsoft SQL Server
- Intuit QuickBooks
- Scheduling software
- First Insight MaximEyes
- HealthLine Systems Eyecom
- Insight Software My Vision Express
- OfficeMate Software Solutions OfficeMate
How do I Become an Optometrist?
Learn what Optometrist education requirements there are.
How Long Does it Take to Become an Optometrist?
Who Employs Optometrists?
The table below shows some of the most common industries where those employed in this career field work.
Similar Careers
Those thinking about becoming an Optometrist might also be interested in the following careers:
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