Optometry

Both optometry and ophthalmology are great options for those interested in a career in eye care. However, there are some key differences between the two professions that may make one a better fit for you than the other. Optometrists are doctors of optometry (ODs) who provide primary vision care, including comprehensive eye exams, prescribing glasses and contact lenses, and detecting and treating eye diseases. They can also perform minor surgery, such as removing cataracts. Optometrists typically complete a four-year Doctor of Optometry (OD) degree programme at an accredited optometry school. Ophthalmologists are doctors of medicine MS or doctors of osteopathic medicine (DOs) who specialize in eye and vision care. They provide all of the same services as optometrists, but they can also perform more complex surgery, such as corneal transplants and retinal detachment surgery. Ophthalmologists typically complete a four-year medical school degree followed by a three-year residency in ophthalmology. Which is right for you? If you are interested in a career in eye care and are not sure whether to become an optometrist or an ophthalmologist, here are a few things to consider:
Your interests: Do you want to focus on primary vision care or on more complex medical eye care? Your career goals: Do you want to work in a private practice, a hospital, or a research setting? Your location: Are you willing to relocate for residency or a job? If you are interested in primary vision care and want to work in a private practice or a community setting, optometry may be a good fit for you. If you are interested in more complex medical eye care and want to work in a hospital or a research setting, ophthalmology may be a good fit for you. Ultimately, the best way to decide which profession is right for you is to shadow both optometrists and ophthalmologists to SEE what their day-to-day work is like. You can also talk to current students and professionals in both fields to get their insights.