Introduction
Optometry is a promising career path that offers fulfilling work, job security, and a competitive salary. Optometrists help improve patients’ quality of life by examining eyes, diagnosing eye problems, and prescribing corrective measures. In this article, we’ll discuss what it takes to become an optometrist, including the academic requirements, necessary work experience, overcoming challenges, and trends in the industry.
Understanding Optometry as a Career Path
An optometrist is a healthcare professional who specializes in diagnosing eye diseases and vision problems. They prescribe eyeglasses, contact lenses, and corrective surgeries to help patients maintain good vision and overall eye health.
Key Skills: To be successful in optometry, you need to possess a set of skills that includes strong analytical skills, attention to detail, excellent communication skills, patience, and problem-solving abilities. You will also need to be comfortable using diagnostic equipment and performing manual tasks.
Career Paths: Optometrists can work in different settings, including private practices, healthcare institutions, and eye clinics. They also have the option to specialize in areas like pediatric optometry, geriatric optometry, vision therapy, and low vision rehabilitation.
Academic Requirements for Optometrists
If you want to become an optometrist, you need to earn a Doctor of Optometry (OD) degree from an accredited optometry school. You will also need to pass the National Board of Examiners in Optometry (NBEO) exams to obtain a license to practice.
Specific Courses: To apply for optometry school, you will need to have completed specific courses in science, math, and liberal arts. The required courses may vary depending on the school, but most optometry schools require the following:
- Biology
- General Chemistry
- Organic Chemistry
- Physics
- Calculus/Mathematics
- English
Length of Education: The length of time it takes to complete an optometry program is four years. Some schools may offer accelerated programs that allow students to earn their degree in less time.
Building Relevant Work Experience
Gaining relevant work experience is essential to pursuing a career in optometry. Shadowing opportunities, internships, and part-time work in an optometry practice can provide valuable insight into the profession and set you apart from other applicants.
How to Find Work Experience: You can begin your work experience search by contacting local optometrists or optometry practices to ask if they offer job shadowing, internships, or part-time positions. You can also use career services at your college or university or search for opportunities online.
Standing Out: To stand out in a competitive job market, it’s important to demonstrate your commitment to the field of optometry. You can do this by volunteering at optometry clinics, participating in vision screenings, or attending conferences and workshops related to the field.
Overcoming Challenges in Optometry
Financing an optometry education can be a significant challenge. Optometry schools can be costly, and students may need to take out loans to cover tuition, books, and housing.
Certification Requirements: Passing the NBEO exams is a requirement for obtaining an optometry license in most states. These exams can be challenging, and students are encouraged to begin studying early and take advantage of study resources offered by their optometry school.
Standing Out in the Industry: Broadening your skills and knowledge beyond the standard OD program can make you a desirable candidate in the job market. Consider pursuing residencies, fellowships, or advanced training courses to fine-tune your skills and knowledge. Building a strong professional network among other optometry professionals can also open opportunities.
Hear From Experienced Optometrists
Experienced optometrists have tips to share with aspiring optometrists. Raman Bhakhri, O.D., from Western University of Health Sciences, says “Networking is key: network with colleagues, other health professionals, and organizations like our state board.”
Dr. Bhakhri also advises that “optometry students understand the ramifications of healthcare policies as they pertain to optometry and their patients.”
Trends and Changes in Optometry
Rapid advancements in technology are transforming the way optometrists diagnose and treat eye diseases. Optometrists now have access to new devices that can take high-resolution images of the eye and identify eye problems much earlier than ever before.
Changes in healthcare policy, such as the Affordable Care Act, have brought more people into the healthcare system, increasing the need for optometrists to provide care.
Conclusion
Becoming an optometrist requires dedication, hard work, and a strong desire to help others. It is a rewarding career path that offers job security, a competitive salary, and opportunities for growth. To prepare for a career in optometry, you need to meet specific academic requirements, gain relevant work experience, and prepare for the certification process. By following the advice and tips of experienced optometrists, you can take steps to ensure your success in this field, should you choose to pursue it.
