What does an optometrist primarily do?

An optometrist primarily provides comprehensive eye exams and vision correction because their main role revolves around evaluating eye health and determining the need for vision correction. They are trained to detect refractive errors such as nearsightedness, farsightedness, and astigmatism, and they prescribe corrective lenses, such as eyeglasses or contact lenses, to help improve vision.

In addition to prescribing lenses, optometrists may also diagnose and manage various eye diseases and conditions, offering a broader scope of patient care than just focusing on the dispensing of glasses. They play a vital part in preventive care by conducting regular eye exams, which can identify early signs of more serious health conditions, such as diabetes or hypertension, that often manifest through changes in vision.

While an optometrist may work closely with ophthalmologists, who manage surgical procedures and perform advanced eye surgeries, their training does not include performing these surgeries independently. This distinction is important in understanding the specific role of an optometrist in the eye care continuum.