Becoming an optometrist can lead to a rewarding career. Almost half of Americans wear glasses or contacts and that means that the demand for good doctors is rising. Anyone interested in becoming an optometrist in Pittsburgh should research what the job demands and what type of education is needed to pursue this career path.
What Does An Optometrist Do?
An optometrist is responsible for examining the eyes and diagnosing nearsightedness or farsightedness. They also diagnose eye diseases like glaucoma. If a patient needs glasses, contacts or medication to treat eye diseases, then they can write out a prescription. Many open up their own offices where the environment is calm, clean and well lit. Some doctors open up only during the week, but others may open up evenings or weekends to accommodate their patient's needs. They cannot perform surgery, but can help with before and after care. They are the main eye vision providers to people who require regular checkups of their eyes.
Education
Before pursuing a Doctorate in Optometry, a student must first have a Bachelors degree from an accredited university. Since this career is science based, students with biology and chemistry degrees can get a head start. It is best to check with one of the 20 United States colleges of optometry for more information on admissions and requirements because only one of every three applicants is admitted to these competitive schools. An optometrist in Pittsburgh may have attended the Pennsylvania College of Optometry at Salus University in Elkins Park, Pennsylvania.
The Doctor in Optometry degree is four years long. Once completed, doctors must take the National Board of Examiners in Optometry exam to earn their license and practice in the United States. They may also need to take a state exam to practice in their state. Doctors should find out from their state if any further tests or exams are required. Anyone interested in teaching Optometry as a career should look into Masters Programs or PhDs in visual science, physiological optics, public health, health administration or health education.
Salary
Licensed optometrists can expect to make around $100,000 a year. However, a person's yearly salary is based on location, experience and employer. Self employed doctors or those partnered with other physicians can expect to earn around $130,000 to $180,000 a year. This career does not require very long work hours as some physicians work, and it is not as hectic as other professionals as well. Paid vacation, sick leave and pension contributions are added benefits for those who work with optical chains.
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