optometrist

optometrist /op·tom·e·trist/ (op-tom´ĕ-trist) a specialist in optometry.

---

Optometrist

A medical professional who examines and tests the eyes for disease and treats visual disorders by prescribing corrective lenses and/or vision therapy. In many states, optometrists are licensed to use diagnostic and therapeutic drugs to treat certain ocular diseases.

Mentioned in: Myopia

---

optometrist

[optom′ətrist]

Etymology: Gk, optikos, sight, metron, measure

a person who practices optometry. An optometrist is awarded the degree of Doctor of Optometry (O.D.) after completion of at least 3 years of college followed by 4 years in an approved college of optometry. A state examination and license are also required. See also optician, optometry.

---

optometrist [op-tom´ĕ-trist]

a specialist in optometry; an independent primary health care provider who examines the eyes to evaluate health and visual abilities, diagnoses eye diseases and conditions of the eye and visual system, and provides necessary treatment such as eyeglasses, contact lenses, vision therapy, and low vision aids; optometrists may also perform certain surgical procedures. In most states, they may use drugs to treat eye disease. Optometrists are not medical doctors and are educated and licensed in accordance with state laws. Preparation includes a preprofessional undergraduate degree and four years of professional education at a college of optometry, leading to a degree of Doctor of Optometry (OD); some optometrists also complete a residency.

---

optometrist 

A person trained in the practice of optometry. The World Council of Optometry defines optometrists as 'the primary healthcare practitioners of the eye and visual system who provide comprehensive eye and vision care, which includes refraction and dispensing, the detection/diagnosis and management of diseases in the eye, and the rehabilitation of conditions of the visual system'. Syn. ophthalmic optician (term used principally in the UK and the Republic of Ireland); optician-optometrist (term used in some European countries); optometric physician (term used in some US states, especially where therapeutic drugs are used).