Life As an Optometrist
Example of Optometrist Job Diagnose, manage, and treat conditions and diseases of the human eye and visual system. Examine eyes and visual system, diagnose problems or impairments, prescribe corrective lenses, and provide treatment. May prescribe therapeutic drugs to treat specific eye conditions.
Life As an Optometrist
- Prescribe medications to treat eye diseases if state laws permit.
- Consult with and refer patients to ophthalmologist or other health care practitioner if additional medical treatment is determined necessary.
- Analyze test results and develop a treatment plan.
- Remove foreign bodies from the eye.
- Examine eyes, using observation, instruments and pharmaceutical agents, to determine visual acuity and perception, focus and coordination and to diagnose diseases and other abnormalities such as glaucoma or color blindness.
- Prescribe therapeutic procedures to correct or conserve vision.
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Optometrist Needed Skills
Below is a list of the skills most Optometrists say are important on the job.
Critical Thinking: Using logic and reasoning to identify the strengths and weaknesses of alternative solutions, conclusions or approaches to problems.
Active Listening: Giving full attention to what other people are saying, taking time to understand the points being made, asking questions as appropriate, and not interrupting at inappropriate times.
Speaking: Talking to others to convey information effectively.
Science: Using scientific rules and methods to solve problems.
Writing: Communicating effectively in writing as appropriate for the needs of the audience.
Reading Comprehension: Understanding written sentences and paragraphs in work related documents.
Related Job Titles for this Occupation:
- Chief, Optometry Service
- Optometrist/Practice Owner
- Optometrist
- Doctor of Optometry (OD)
- Eye Clinic Manager
Optometrist Employment Estimates
In 2016, there was an estimated number of 40,200 jobs in the United States for Optometrist. New jobs are being produced at a rate of 17.9% which is above the national average. The Bureau of Labor Statistics predicts 7,200 new jobs for Optometrist by 2026. Due to new job openings and attrition, there will be an average of 2,000 job openings in this field each year.
The states with the most job growth for Optometrist are Utah, Colorado, and Washington. Watch out if you plan on working in Vermont, Rhode Island, or Mississippi. These states have the worst job growth for this type of profession.
How Much Does an Optometrist Make?
Optometrists make between $57,480 and $188,160 a year.
Optometrists who work in North Dakota, Vermont, or Alaska, make the highest salaries.
How much do Optometrists make in different U.S. states?
| State | Annual Mean Salary |
|---|---|
| Alabama | $114,070 |
| Alaska | $165,640 |
| Arizona | $124,920 |
| Arkansas | $95,500 |
| California | $117,180 |
| Colorado | $132,030 |
| Connecticut | $138,140 |
| Delaware | $116,210 |
| District of Columbia | $90,140 |
| Florida | $102,060 |
| Georgia | $104,970 |
| Hawaii | $117,310 |
| Idaho | $96,070 |
| Illinois | $121,610 |
| Indiana | $113,880 |
| Iowa | $130,160 |
| Kansas | $117,840 |
| Kentucky | $114,550 |
| Louisiana | $104,360 |
| Maine | $136,510 |
| Maryland | $129,000 |
| Massachusetts | $141,890 |
| Michigan | $112,440 |
| Minnesota | $134,270 |
| Mississippi | $133,370 |
| Missouri | $114,110 |
| Montana | $110,370 |
| Nebraska | $104,010 |
| Nevada | $127,940 |
| New Hampshire | $131,180 |
| New Jersey | $114,630 |
| New Mexico | $86,870 |
| New York | $124,820 |
| North Carolina | $136,260 |
| North Dakota | $175,090 |
| Ohio | $132,400 |
| Oklahoma | $109,300 |
| Oregon | $99,560 |
| Pennsylvania | $119,820 |
| Rhode Island | $104,320 |
| South Carolina | $142,290 |
| South Dakota | $96,540 |
| Tennessee | $115,960 |
| Texas | $123,930 |
| Utah | $74,490 |
| Vermont | $170,550 |
| Virginia | $129,010 |
| Washington | $119,860 |
| West Virginia | $118,270 |
| Wisconsin | $122,310 |
| Wyoming | $135,220 |
What Tools do Optometrists Use?
Below is a list of the types of tools and technologies that Optometrists may use on a daily basis:
- Microsoft Word
- Microsoft Access
- Microsoft SQL Server
- Intuit QuickBooks
- Scheduling software
- First Insight MaximEyes
- HealthLine Systems Eyecom
- Insight Software My Vision Express
- OfficeMate Software Solutions OfficeMate
Becoming an Optometrist
Learn what Optometrist education requirements there are.
How many years of work experience do I need?
Optometrists Sector
Below are examples of industries where Optometrists work:
You May Also Be Interested In…
Those thinking about becoming an Optometrist might also be interested in the following careers:
References:
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