Optometrist

Optometrists (also known as ophthalmic opticians) are health specialists trained to examine the eyes for eye diseases, general health problems and defects in eyesight. Eye examinations usually last around 20 to 30 minutes, during which time the optometrist will use a range of sophisticated equipment to examine the patient's eyes, both internally and externally, to assess the general health of the eyes and to identify any other underlying health problems, and then to conduct a series of tests to measure the type and extent of any problems with vision. The examination also involves discussing with the patient why they are having their eyes examined, conducting other tests if necessary, such as for glaucoma or colour vision deficiency, and checking eye movements and co-ordination.

At the end of the examination, the optometrist will prescribe spectacles or contact lenses, or advise the patient that they do not need any correction to their vision. They might refer the patient to a doctor if they feel that medical treatment is needed.

Some optometrists choose to specialise in a particular area, for example, children's vision, low vision or contact lenses.

Entry level
To practise as an optometrist in the UK, you must be registered with the General Optical Council (GOC), and your registration must be renewed annually.

Your starting point is to pass a degree in optometry at a university approved by the GOC. Entry usually requires at least three A levels/five H grades, including at least two from biology, maths, chemistry and physics. Some universities accept equivalent qualifications, either on their own or in combination with other qualifications, while Aston University offers a one-year foundation course for applicants with alternative qualifications or A levels inappropriate for optometry.

Exact entry requirements vary between universities, so you must check carefully. In all cases, due to competition for places, conditional offers are generally set much higher than the minimum. GCSE/S grade subjects and results are also taken into account.

Making the grade
Having successfully completed your degree, you must obtain one year's pre-registration experience involving full-time clinical experience as a trainee under the supervision of a registered optometrist. During this year, you must maintain a logbook and are assessed for competence at three-monthly intervals. Finally, you must pass a one-day final assessment.

The College of Optometrists offers higher qualifications at certificate and diploma level for qualified optometrists. They are in Contact Lens Practice, Diabetes, Glaucoma, Orthoptics, Therapeutics and Rehabilitation of Visual Impairment.

Personal qualities
You should be able to combine your expert scientific knowledge with the ability to put anxious patients at ease and the precision and attention to detail needed to achieve the best possible care for your clients' vision.

You must have sufficient manual dexterity to use delicate measuring instruments.

If you are planning to set up your own practice, you will need strong business and management skills.

Looking ahead
There are around 9,500 registered optometrists practising in the UK, a number that has grown in recent years. Around 90% of optometrists work in private practice, which includes large chains, small independents and franchises. Most others work in hospitals in the NHS. A few are employed in the Armed Forces, prison services and charities, while some teach in universities.

Excellent prospects for self-employment attract many people to the profession.

Alternative suggestions
If you are primarily interested in healthcare professions concerned with maintaining or correcting eyesight, you might consider dispensing optician, ophthalmologist or orthoptist. Other possibilities in healthcare include dentist, dietitian, doctor, occupational therapist, pharmacist, physiotherapist or speech and language therapist.

Take-home pay
Salaries for trainee optometrists in their pre-registration year tend to be very modest, at around £9,000 to £10,000. Once qualified as a newly-registered optometrist in private practice, you should be earning between £22,000 and £30,000 a year, rising with experience to around £45,000. Some optometrists earn considerably more.

Optometrists in the National Health Service are usually graded in NHS band 6, ranging from around £22,500 to £30,500, with additional payments for specialist skills. (By the end of 2005, NHS staff should have moved to a new pay structure called 'Agenda for Change')

Effects
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, especially if trying to establish their own practice. Part-time and flexible working hours are possible.

Sources of information
Association of Optometrists: www.aop.org.uk
College of Optometrists: www.college-optometrists.org
General Optical Council: www.optical.org

CRCI: JJ