An optometrist is a doctor of optometry (OD) who specializes in the primary and medical
care of your eyes and visual system.
In general, optometrist complete 4 years of undergrad and 4 years of optometry school.
In addition, many optometrists do an optional 1 - 2 year residency or fellowship.
Add it up and that’s a minimum of 8 - 10 years of education after high school.
Optometrists manage most diseases of the eye, prescribe you glasses and contact lenses,
evaluate how your eyes work together, and assist you with visual impairments all so
you can live your life to the fullest.
While the scope of medical care that can be provided by an optometrist varies in each
state (due to your state law), optometrists are trained on virtually all aspects of the
eye and visual system.
It’s easiest to think of them as your primary eye doctors.
For example, if you had red, irritated eyes or were looking to be fit with contact lenses,
you could see an optometrist.