What does an Optometrist do?
An Optometrist is an integral part of overall patient care specializing in eye health. They will typically examine and test a patient’s eyes to look for vision issues and ocular disorders or diseases.
Usually, an Optometrist will work within private practice, a clinic, or a community healthcare center. Their duties and responsibilities may change in each work environment. For example, working within a clinic may require an Optometrist to conduct post-surgical follow up and care for a patient who received cataract removal.
In addition to their typical duties, they may also specialize in a particular area. For example, an Optometrist may specialize in fitting visual aids for patients who are vision impaired. They may specialize in contact lens fitting. Or they may specialize in correcting unique vision problems with children.
Optometrist skills and qualifications
A successful Optometrist needs to have diverse skills as they work directly with diverse patients. Keeping up to date on the latest advances in ocular care and disease prevention allows an Optometrist to excel within their role. Some other skills and qualifications include:
- Skilled at using specialized instruments to gather diagnostic information
- Ability to maintain detailed patient records
- Strong communication skills, active listening, asking questions, and observation
- Professionalism towards colleagues, patients, and other healthcare providers
- Ability to remain respectful and empathetic towards a diverse population
- Ability to maintain integrity and confidentiality within their practice
Optometrist experience requirements
Experience requirements for an Optometrist may vary depending on the work environment. However, all Optometrists should have a solid working knowledge of examination and testing process to determine eye health. As well, understanding the latest advances in treatment for various ocular diseases and disorders is vital. Experience working with a broad demographic and having empathy and a desire to help others is essential.
Optometrist education and training requirements
An Optometrist in Canada requires seven to eight years of post-secondary education. They must have three years of university undergraduate training in mathematics and science, followed by a four-year university program in optometry. Provincial and territorial licensing is also required to practice within each province or territory after completing the necessary education.
Optometrist salary expectations
According to Indeed Salaries, the average salary for an Optometrist in Canada is $97,010 per year, depending on factors including experience, education, location and company.
Job description samples for similar positions
If an Optometrist is not quite what you’re looking for, more job description samples that may fit your needs include: