Optometrist
Description:
Optometrists diagnose, manage, and treat conditions and diseases of the human eye and visual system. They examine eyes and visual system, diagnose problems or impairments, prescribe corrective lenses, and provide treatment. Optometrists may also prescribe therapeutic drugs to treat specific eye conditions.
Educational Requirements:
All States and the District of Columbia require that optometrists be licensed. The Doctor of Optometry degree requires completion of a 4-year program at an accredited optometryschool. Optometrists wishing to teach or do research may study for a master's or Ph.D. degree in visual science, physiological optics, neurophysiology, public health, health administration, health information and communication, or health education. One-year postgraduate clinical residency programs are available for optometrists who wish to specialize in family practice optometry, pediatric optometry, geriatric optometry, vision therapy, contact lenses, hospital-based optometry, primary care optometry, or ocular disease.
Wages:
The average annual salary in Maine is $117,187
