What training does an optometrist usually receive?
Most people will tell you about the ophthalmologist when it comes to eye conditions. However, if you are looking for a specialist who can help you get the right lenses for your specs, and then you should consult an optometrist. However, these two professionals work closely. The ophthalmologist treats different conditions that affect the eye.
For one to train as an optometrist, the academic competency is a key consideration. The medical colleges are very strict during the intake process. Many people apply for a chance to train with these schools but they do not meet the criteria. Once one is fully trained, you receive a certificate that allows you to go in to the employment market.
During the train, these doctors are enlightened on what it takes to be a practitioner in this field. Both theory and practical classes are offered. The study is about how to evaluate the patients’ eyes. There are some people who complain that they cannot see beyond a few meters while others fail to see what is around them. These doctors are trained on how to tell whether the patient’s eye has the correct ability to distinguish colors or concentrate on a given point. This is made possible through study of the actual human eyes that are kept as laboratory samples in medical schools.
The study involves the ability to test for any unusual conditions in the eye. Common eye diseases such as glaucoma and cataract are some other areas that they have to pay attention to. They learn preventive measures that they can teach the patients.
This training takes up to four years before one can get a degree certificate. One is supposed to choose the right school. The institution should be accredited by the ministry of education to train optometrists. This will enable you to get the license to operate. During your high school years, you study hard in sciences. The pass mark is based on your performance in biology and chemistry as well as physics. Language, English, is also considered together with mathematics. Given that this training is based on sciences purely, many fail to meet this.
This is one of the most sought after fields. Every year, hundreds of students send in application. Only a handful of them are accepted. There is an examination known as OAT and it tests ones scientific understanding. You will find that some of the schools will allow you to start training right after high school once you pass the entry test. Each school has its own guidelines of accepting students.
The main study is made laboratory exercises. It is based on how to diagnose the human eye. The optometrist must be well trained to be able to tell a sick eye. It is the duty of this specialist to examine the eye comprehensively and recommend the right treatment.
One can advance by taking a post graduate degree or a Masters degree. The deeper you study, the more you specialize in a given area. You can even opt to study in the area of children.
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