Download Doctor of Optometry

Doctor of Optometry
Doctors of Optometry are independent primary health care
providers who examine, diagnose, treat, and manage
disorders of the visual systems and diseases of the eye and
associated structures. The scope of optometric care ranges
from vision testing and correction to managing complex eye
and vision problems and diagnosing the presence of systemic
diseases such as diabetes and hypertension. Throughout the
curriculum, the relationships between basic and clinical
science, theory and practice are continually emphasized.
Optometrists are highly educated and well-trained primary eye-care providers. As important
members of the health-care team, optometrists treat ocular diseases such as glaucoma, comanage refractive procedures, fit medical devices such as contact lenses and prostheses,
prescribe therapeutic medications, and treat amblyopia as well as binocular vision disorders.
Additionally, optometrists are instrumental in referring patients to health-care specialists after the
detection of ocular signs of systemic diseases such as hypertension and diabetes.
In today's market, practice opportunities for optometrists abound. Optometrists may elect to
practice individually, join group practices, teach, conduct valuable research, participate in healthcare administration and practice in military and public health-care settings. Optometrists are also
important consultants in workplace designs, highway lighting, aviation and sports vision.
As the third largest independent healthcare profession, optometry continues to have a very
promising outlook. The demand for optometric services is expected to rise, according to the
Association of Schools and Colleges of Optometry (ASCO), U.S. Department of Labor, Bureau
of Labor Statistics and the American Optometry Association (AOA).
Optometry has a tremendous amount of flexibility and personal satisfaction. Self employment,
favorable working conditions, and direct patient care are just a few reasons for the high career
satisfaction reported by optometrists.
Get a great start at UTEP on the path to becoming an
Optometrist. For more information, contact:
Donna E. Ekal, Ph.D.
Program Coordinator, Medical Professions Institute
Classroom Building, C001
The University of Texas at El Paso
El Paso, TX 79968
(915) 747-6230
Fax: (915) 747-6412
[email protected]
http://www.opt.uh.edu/
The University of Houston is the only school of Optometry in Texas.
University of Houston College of Optometry
Office of Student Affairs and Admissions
505 J Davis Armistead Bldg
Houston, Texas 77204-2020
www.opt.uh.edu
713-743-2047
http://www.opt.uh.edu/
For info about Optometry Schools outside of Texas go to:
U.S. Schools and Colleges of Optometry
www.opted.org
http://www.opt.uh.edu/