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Optometrist

Optometrists perform eye examinations to determine the presence of vision problems and other eye conditions and disease.

They treat or manage these problems by prescribing glasses, contact lenses, optical aids, vision therapy, medication (in the form of eye drops) or referral to an eye surgeon when required.

Most optometrists are in daily contact with members of the public on a one-on-one basis.

TASKS

Optometrists may perform the following tasks:

determine the nature and extent of vision and eye problems and disease by examining patients' eyes using specialised instruments, techniques and tests
correct vision defects by prescribing and dispensing glasses or contact lenses, special optical aids or vision therapy
examine patients for signs of eye disease and systemic conditions, including glaucoma, diabetes, high blood pressure and multiple sclerosis, and work with medical practitioners and eye surgeons to co-manage patients when required
manage some eye conditions by prescribing ocular therapeutic drugs
monitor patients' vision and ocular health with the use of imaging techniques such as digital retinal photography and computerised vision tests
conduct eye screening and testing for the purposes of determining occupational fitness or fitness to drive
undertake managerial, retail and administrative tasks

PERSONAL REQUIREMENTS

patient and caring manner
able to carry out accurate and precise work
good communication skills
enjoy helping people

Interest Area

EDUCATION & TRAINING

To become an optometrist you usually have to study optometry at university. Alternatively, you can complete a degree in vision science or a relevant area at university, followed by a postgraduate qualification in optometry.

To get into the degree courses you usually need to gain your HSC/ACT Year 12. Prerequisite subjects, or assumed knowledge, in one or more of English, mathematics, chemistry, biology and physics are normally required. You may also be required to sit the Undergraduate Medicine and Health Sciences Admission Test (UMAT). Entry to postgraduate courses usually requires completion of an appropriate bachelor degree. A number of universities in Australia offer these degrees.

Universities have different prerequisites and some have flexible entry requirements. Contact the universities you are interested in for more information as requirements may change.

Additional Information

Before undertaking clinical placements required by courses, students will need to obtain a National Police Certificate, a Provide First Aid Certificate, immunisations and a Working with Children Check (NSW) or a Working with Vulnerable People Check (ACT). Contact the institutions you are interested in for more information.

It is a legal requirement for graduates to be registered with the Optometry Board of Australia before practising as an optometrist in any state or territory in Australia. For full details, see the Optometry Board of Australia's website.

Registered optometrists are eligible to apply for membership with Optometry Australia. Contact the relevant Optometry Australia state or territory division for further information.

EMPLOYMENT OPPORTUNITIES

Most graduates enter private practice on completion of their course. Some graduates choose to embark on non-clinical careers that make use of their skills as visual scientists. Most non-clinical positions are in universities and research organisations or with companies involved in the manufacture of optical instruments and lenses.

As optometry becomes more diversified, there are increasing opportunities for specialisation in areas such as ocular disease, sports vision, children's vision and industrial vision practices.