Optometrists are health specialists trained to examine the eyes to detect signs of injury, disease, abnormality and defects in vision. In addition, some general health conditions (for example diabetes) show themselves in the eye and an optometrist is trained to detect these.
The eye examinations that an optometrist carries out usually last around 20 to 30 minutes. During that time the optometrist will:
- discuss with the patient why they are having their eyes examined
- ask the patient about their general health and other information to help gauge what might affect their sight including occupation, computer use and hobbies
- use a range of equipment to examine the patient’s eyes, both internally and externally
- conduct other tests, if necessary, such as those for glaucoma or colour vision deficiency
- conduct a series of vision tests
- check eye movements and co-ordination
- prescribe spectacles or contact lenses at the end of the examination or advise the patient that they do not need any correction to their vision
- where necessary, refer a patient whom they suspect may have eye disease or another medical problem to medical colleagues.
All optometrists are qualified to prescribe and fit spectacles or contact lenses and some may choose to specialise in these areas. Optometrists may help patients to choose suitable frames although, in many cases, this is done by a dispensing optician.
Optometrists are also trained to use some diagnostic drugs (eye drops) to enable them to examine the patient’s eye, when appropriate. They are also trained to manage minor eye conditions and this may include using some therapeutic drugs (again in the form of eye drops). Some optometrists have specific training to enable them to use or supply additional therapeutic drugs.
Optometrists work in private practice which can be independent, part of a chain or in the HSE where they may be in a hospital or in the community working alongside doctors and other health professionals.
Hours and environment
Hours of work vary, but most full-time optometrists work 35 to 39 hours a week over five days from Monday to Saturday. Some work longer hours and they may work Sundays. Part-time and flexible working hours are possible.
Optometrists usually work in special rooms where they test patients’ eyes. The rooms normally have no natural light and some of the eye examination is conducted in semi-darkness. The work involves some standing and bending, although much of the consultation is conducted with both the optometrist and patient sitting down.
Salary and other benefits
These figures are only a guide, as actual rates of pay may vary depending on the employer and where people live.
Newly qualified Optometrists earn in the region of €33,000 to €35,000 and senior optometrists can earn up to €60,000.
Skills and personal qualities
An optometrist should:
- be able to understand and apply scientific principles and methods
- be confident in handling mathematical information
- be able to pay attention to detail
- possess manual dexterity
- keep up with scientific advances and learn to use new techniques and instruments
- have the patience to perform repetitive tasks
- be comfortable working in close proximity to patients
- have strong interpersonal skills, with the ability to put anxious patients at ease
- have good organisational and administrative skills
- have strong business and management skills, if wanting to become self-employed.
Interests
It is important to:
- be interested in science
- enjoy working with people.
Getting in
To work as an Optometrist in Ireland, you must successfully complete a BSc in Optometry, and pass the professional qualifying exams. There is one optometry courses in the Republic of Ireland and one in Northern Ireland .
The Association of Optometrists Ireland (AOI) is the professional representative body for the vast majority of practising optometrists in Ireland. Graduates who pass the exams of the AOI, may, if elected to Membership, be awarded the Fellowship of the Association of Optometrists, Ireland (FAOI).
Useful Links:
Association of Optometrists Ireland
Association of Optometrists UK