Optometry
Optometry (from Ancient Greek ὄψις (ópsis), meaning "eye", and μέτρον (métron), meaning "measure") is the healthcare practice concerned with examining the eyes for visual defects, prescribing corrective lenses, and detecting eye abnormalities.
In the United States and Canada, optometrists are those that hold a post-baccalaureate four-year Doctor of Optometry degree. They are trained and licensed to practice optometry and eye related conditions, in addition to providing refractive (optical) eye care. Within their scope of practice, optometrists are health care practitioners according to the WHO and bill medical insurance(s) (example: Medicare) accordingly.
In the United Kingdom, optometrists may also provide medical care (e.g. prescribe medications and perform various surgeries) for eye-related conditions in addition to providing refractive care. The Doctor of Optometry degree is rarer in the UK.
Many optometrists participate in academic research for eye-related conditions and diseases. In addition to prescribing glasses and contact lenses for vision related deficiencies, optometrists are trained in monitoring and treating ocular disease-pathologies.
The range of training for optometrists varies greatly between countries. Some countries only require certificate training while others require a doctoral degree.
In the United States, optometrists typically hold a four-year college degree, a four-year Doctor of Optometry degree, and have the option to complete a one-year residency program.
By comparison, in the United States, ophthalmologists are medical doctors (MDs and DOs) who typically hold a four-year college degree, a four-year medical degree, and additional years of training after medical school in an ophthalmology residency (at least four years) during which they receive training in advanced medical management of eye disease and ocular surgery as well as prescribing glasses. Some ophthalmologists receive additional post-residency training in a fellowship.
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