Optometry | Community Health

Optometry is the healthcare practice that focuses on examining the eyes for visual defects, prescribing corrective lenses, and detecting eye abnormalities. With roots in ancient Greece, optometry has evolved into a sophisticated field that requires a post-baccalaureate four-year Doctor of Optometry degree in the United States and Canada. Optometrists are trained and licensed to treat some eye-related conditions, provide refractive care, and participate in academic research. According to the World Health Organization (WHO), optometrists are considered healthcare practitioners and can bill medical insurances, such as Medicare. With over 40,000 optometrists in the United States alone, the field continues to grow, with a projected 10% increase in employment opportunities by 2025. As technology advances, optometrists are incorporating innovative tools, such as [[artificial-intelligence|artificial intelligence]] and [[telemedicine|telemedicine]], to improve patient care and outcomes.