Optometrists are skilled professionals who look after the health of their patients’ eyes. They are trained to detect defects in vision, signs of injury, eye diseases or abnormalities and general health problems, such as diabetes or high blood pressure.
1. Make a difference
Optometry is a rewarding career, where you can make a real difference to people’s lives. You’ll diagnose sight problems and identify health issues – you could even save someone’s sight. Getting the right prescription can be life-changing, helping young people succeed at school, older people stay independent and everyone in between enjoy work and hobbies.
2. You’ll be in demand
Optometrists are in short supply in the UK – and globally – so you’ll be in high demand when you qualify. More than one in ten NHS optometry posts is currently empty and The College of Optometrists estimates there will be a shortage of nearly 2,000 practitioners by 2030.
3. Explore new technology
Scientific and medical developments make this an exciting field. Did you know it’s now possible to slow the progression of short-sightedness – myopia – in children, using special contact lenses or spectacles? If you are interested in science and technology, there are plenty of opportunities to learn about the latest developments and use them to help your patients.
4. Enjoy teamwork
Optometrists work in multidisciplinary healthcare teams, mainly in community practice or in hospitals. You will liaise closely with dispensing opticians who advise on, fit and supply the most appropriate spectacle frames and lenses for each individual.
In community practice, you will also work with optical assistants, receptionists, practice managers, sales reps and more. In hospital, you’ll liaise with ophthalmologists – eye doctors and surgeons – as well as specialists such as paediatricians and orthoptists.
In both settings, you’ll learn from working with colleagues with expertise in a range of different areas.
5. Find opportunities to progress
There are lots of opportunities to develop your career. You could specialise in areas such as contact lenses, sports, working with children or low vision – caring for people who are blind or partially sighted. Or perhaps concentrate on diseases such as glaucoma or diabetes. Another option is to study for a master’s degree in optometry, potentially leading towards a career in research. Or you could pursue further training to become an independent prescriber, advising on medicines for eye health problems.
6. Enjoy financial rewards
Starting salaries are around £31,000, rising to £55,000 or more with experience, according to the National Careers Service. You could be promoted to senior management. This is a career where you can really go places.
7. Be your own boss
Many optometrists run their own businesses. You can set up from scratch, take over an existing practice or work with a company that offers franchises or other support, where you benefit from their expertise.