Optometry is the field involving virtually everything that has to do with eyes and vision, including examination, diagnosis and treatment of the eyes and surrounding structures, and the treatment of vision problems.

Doctors of Optometry (ODs) are the independent primary health care professionals for the eye. Optometrists examine, diagnose, treat, and manage diseases, injuries, and disorders of the visual system, the eye, and associated structures as well as identify related systemic conditions affecting the eye (American Optometric Association [AOA]).

They should not be confused with ophthalmologists or dispensing opticians. Ophthalmologists are physicians who perform eye surgery, in addition to diagnosing and treating eye conditions. Dispensing opticians fit eyeglasses and contact lenses, following prescriptions written by ophthalmologists or optometrists.

Learn More About Optometry

• Future Eye Doc Website
• Applicants Resource Page
• Be a Doctor of Optometry: Put Your Future in Focus Video
• Doctor of Optometry Changing Lives Daily Video
• Why I Chose the Field of Optometry Video
• Eye on Optometry Blog
• The “True Stories” Booklet
• Optometry: A Career Guide

The Association of Schools and Colleges of Optometry reviewed this overview.