What is an optometrist?

Doctors of Optometry are required to complete eight years of college;  four years of undergraduate education to obtain a Bachelors degree and four years at one of seventeen colleges of Optometry to earn a Doctorate of Optometry.  In addition, many optometrists complete an elective one year residency program.  Annual continuing education is mandatory for all optometrists to renew their license to practice.  Optometrists provide comprehensive eye examinations, including contact lens fittings, vision therapy, low vision rehabilitation, treatment of eye diseases ranging from conjunctivitis to glaucoma and management of retinal disorders including diabetic retinopathy and macular degeneration.