What Is An Optometrist?

  • Doctors of Optometry prescribe medications, low vision rehabilitation, vision therapy, spectacle lenses, contact lenses, and perform certain medical procedures.
  • Optometrists counsel their patients regarding surgical and non-surgical options that meet their visual needs related to their occupations, avocations, and lifestyle.
  • To become an Optometrist, a person must earn a bachelor's degree from college or university and then complete a four (4) year doctorate-level education program at a college of optometry (such as the Indiana University School of Optometry), leading to the doctor of optometry (O.D.) degree. 
  • Some optometrists complete an optional residency in a specific area of practice.
  • Optometrists are eye health care professionals licensed to diagnose and treat diseases and disorders of the eye and visual system.