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To all the optometrists (and anyone who knows an optometrist and their opinions on this subject), do you enjoy working as an optometrist? What are the pros and cons? And how often do you receive emergency calls or worse-case scenarios?
I'm a rising senior in high school and I want to discover a career early on that interests me. I will keep the academic challenges and student debts in mind when considering careers. And currently, I am considering the job of an optometrist, and have some questions. Work - life balance is very important to me, as well as feeling confident in my abilities when working. Also, I am looking for shadowing opportunities to see if I'm interested.
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Cynthia’s Answer
Hello! I have been practicing optometry for 13 years. I started in corporate healthcare, then worked as an associate for an optometrist's private practice, then as an associate for an ophthalmologist, and then back to corporate healthcare. The following list is not necessarily exhaustive, and it is largely subjective (a.k.a. what might be a PRO for me could be a CON for you, and vice versa)
PROS:
A profession that addresses a primary need and is in constant demand (high job security)
You can easily make six-figures after four years of study at the doctorate level.
You can specialize in a variety of areas, including pediatrics, contact lenses, glaucoma, low vision, and many others
CONS:
Health professional programs are rigorous. It was the hardest four years of my life and required a lot of dedication to studying.
Most available work is in corporate healthcare or private practice as an associate. There are fewer available jobs at the university level or in government work, if you are interested in a different sector.
A lot of work in optometry is shifting into needing to work on the weekend, and that can detract from work-life balance.
I have never been on-call per se, but I have had to be involved/treat/manage emergency situations, usually involving foreign body removal (for example, removing a piece of metal embedded on the surface of a patient's eye). I think the best way to discover a career or assess it as a fit for you is to shadow and/or reach out to an optometrist who has the type of practice or setup you are more interested in. For example, if you want to work in a hospital setting, you should see if you can connect with a local OD who works in that setting (LinkedIn could be a great place to message and reach out to these professionals). Messaging on this forum is also a great step!
For me, the debt/cost of the education has more than paid for itself, and I feel very happy with the choice to make a living in this field. In corporate healthcare, work-life balance is possible to be achieved, depending on the setting. Some corporate practices are extremely busy and you might feel exhausted or burnt out by the end of the day/early on in your career. You will learn a lot though, in any setting! I appreciate the fact that I can turn the lights off at the end of the day and not necessarily take home the stressors of owning the business.
As with any profession and anything else worthwhile in life, it's all what you make of it. I have friends who love corporate healthcare for the same reasons that others dislike it.
PROS:
A profession that addresses a primary need and is in constant demand (high job security)
You can easily make six-figures after four years of study at the doctorate level.
You can specialize in a variety of areas, including pediatrics, contact lenses, glaucoma, low vision, and many others
CONS:
Health professional programs are rigorous. It was the hardest four years of my life and required a lot of dedication to studying.
Most available work is in corporate healthcare or private practice as an associate. There are fewer available jobs at the university level or in government work, if you are interested in a different sector.
A lot of work in optometry is shifting into needing to work on the weekend, and that can detract from work-life balance.
I have never been on-call per se, but I have had to be involved/treat/manage emergency situations, usually involving foreign body removal (for example, removing a piece of metal embedded on the surface of a patient's eye). I think the best way to discover a career or assess it as a fit for you is to shadow and/or reach out to an optometrist who has the type of practice or setup you are more interested in. For example, if you want to work in a hospital setting, you should see if you can connect with a local OD who works in that setting (LinkedIn could be a great place to message and reach out to these professionals). Messaging on this forum is also a great step!
For me, the debt/cost of the education has more than paid for itself, and I feel very happy with the choice to make a living in this field. In corporate healthcare, work-life balance is possible to be achieved, depending on the setting. Some corporate practices are extremely busy and you might feel exhausted or burnt out by the end of the day/early on in your career. You will learn a lot though, in any setting! I appreciate the fact that I can turn the lights off at the end of the day and not necessarily take home the stressors of owning the business.
As with any profession and anything else worthwhile in life, it's all what you make of it. I have friends who love corporate healthcare for the same reasons that others dislike it.
James Constantine Frangos
Consultant Dietitian & Software Developer since 1972 => Nutrition Education => Health & Longevity => Self-Actualization.
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James Constantine’s Answer
Hi Sadi!
## Exploring Optometry as a Career Option
**Optometry** is a fascinating career choice that blends the realms of science, patient care, and business skills. Like all professions, it carries its own set of advantages and challenges.
### Advantages of Choosing Optometry
* **Mental Engagement:** Optometry demands constant learning and problem-solving, making the job intellectually stimulating.
* **Patient Interaction:** The opportunity to build relationships with patients and enhance their quality of life can be immensely rewarding.
* **Work-Life Balance:** A lot of optometrists enjoy flexible work schedules and the chance to work part-time or run their own practice.
* **Financial Security:** The profession offers competitive remuneration and potential for career growth.
### Challenges in Optometry
* **Extended Working Hours:** Even though work-life balance is usually favorable, there can be times of increased demand, particularly in private practices.
* **Business Administration:** Optometrists often need to manage administrative duties such as scheduling, billing, and overseeing staff.
* **Technological Progress:** The field is continually advancing, necessitating ongoing education to stay current.
* **Stress Factors:** Addressing patient issues, handling emergencies, and staying updated can be stressful.
### Dealing with Emergencies and Critical Situations
The occurrence of emergencies can vary depending on the practice setting. Mostly, optometrists conduct regular eye check-ups and prescribe eyeglasses or contact lenses. However, they may also encounter conditions like sudden vision loss, eye infections, or foreign bodies in the eye. While these situations can be stressful, they also provide a chance to showcase your expertise and offer crucial care.
### Opportunities to Shadow an Optometrist
Shadowing an optometrist is a great way to gain practical experience and evaluate if this profession aligns with your aspirations. Don't hesitate to contact local optometry practices to ask about shadowing opportunities. You might also consider volunteering at eye clinics or vision centers.
**Remember:** Choosing to pursue optometry is a major decision. Reflect on your interests, abilities, and long-term objectives thoroughly.
**Are you interested in exploring other potential career options or want to know more about the process of applying to optometry schools?**
Stay Blessed!
JC.
## Exploring Optometry as a Career Option
**Optometry** is a fascinating career choice that blends the realms of science, patient care, and business skills. Like all professions, it carries its own set of advantages and challenges.
### Advantages of Choosing Optometry
* **Mental Engagement:** Optometry demands constant learning and problem-solving, making the job intellectually stimulating.
* **Patient Interaction:** The opportunity to build relationships with patients and enhance their quality of life can be immensely rewarding.
* **Work-Life Balance:** A lot of optometrists enjoy flexible work schedules and the chance to work part-time or run their own practice.
* **Financial Security:** The profession offers competitive remuneration and potential for career growth.
### Challenges in Optometry
* **Extended Working Hours:** Even though work-life balance is usually favorable, there can be times of increased demand, particularly in private practices.
* **Business Administration:** Optometrists often need to manage administrative duties such as scheduling, billing, and overseeing staff.
* **Technological Progress:** The field is continually advancing, necessitating ongoing education to stay current.
* **Stress Factors:** Addressing patient issues, handling emergencies, and staying updated can be stressful.
### Dealing with Emergencies and Critical Situations
The occurrence of emergencies can vary depending on the practice setting. Mostly, optometrists conduct regular eye check-ups and prescribe eyeglasses or contact lenses. However, they may also encounter conditions like sudden vision loss, eye infections, or foreign bodies in the eye. While these situations can be stressful, they also provide a chance to showcase your expertise and offer crucial care.
### Opportunities to Shadow an Optometrist
Shadowing an optometrist is a great way to gain practical experience and evaluate if this profession aligns with your aspirations. Don't hesitate to contact local optometry practices to ask about shadowing opportunities. You might also consider volunteering at eye clinics or vision centers.
**Remember:** Choosing to pursue optometry is a major decision. Reflect on your interests, abilities, and long-term objectives thoroughly.
**Are you interested in exploring other potential career options or want to know more about the process of applying to optometry schools?**
Stay Blessed!
JC.
This was super helpful, thank you!
Sadi
Updated
Rita’s Answer
It is great to start thinking about your career goals as a high school student. The questions you have raised are really important and demonstrate that you are very motivated.
I do genuinely enjoy my work as an optometrist. Patient care is very fulfilling. Of course, I have had jobs that were not the best environment due to staff and management issues. But I would highly recommend the career overall.
Pros of being an optometrist:
Excellent work-life balance - it is a career that you can work part-time if you need more time for your family. good work hours
Good salary potential and benefits
Fulfilling work - you will see the impact of your work as you see your patients year after year
Job opportunities in many areas - you will always be able to find employment, but may require moving
Interesting work - you will always see cases that will be challenging
Cons of being an optometrist:
Length of educational course needed - most commonly you need a bachelor's degree and then four years of optometry school, followed by an optional one year residency where you can get more clinical experience in a particular field (pediatrics, ocular disease, contact lenses)
Concern that the cost of the education does not match the income potential
Some oversaturated job markets in large cities
Many jobs require weekend work hours
Emergency calls vary based on the type of practice you work in. Many patients with more urgent eye issues will be accommodated in clinic on the day they call (they are added to the schedule). As you triage theses patients and find what issues are causing the patient's issues, you can chose to treat the patient yourself or refer the patient to one of your opthalmology colleagues if they require more advanced care.
Start your college search if you haven't already done so. You need to do an undergraduate course that will include the required classes for optometry school admission.
If possible, consider working in an optometry office or clinic. Many offices with weekend hours would gladly hire a motivated high school or college student for those work times.
Plan to shadow an optometrist during your college years. This can help you get a letter of recommendation that you will need for your optometry school application.
I do genuinely enjoy my work as an optometrist. Patient care is very fulfilling. Of course, I have had jobs that were not the best environment due to staff and management issues. But I would highly recommend the career overall.
Pros of being an optometrist:
Excellent work-life balance - it is a career that you can work part-time if you need more time for your family. good work hours
Good salary potential and benefits
Fulfilling work - you will see the impact of your work as you see your patients year after year
Job opportunities in many areas - you will always be able to find employment, but may require moving
Interesting work - you will always see cases that will be challenging
Cons of being an optometrist:
Length of educational course needed - most commonly you need a bachelor's degree and then four years of optometry school, followed by an optional one year residency where you can get more clinical experience in a particular field (pediatrics, ocular disease, contact lenses)
Concern that the cost of the education does not match the income potential
Some oversaturated job markets in large cities
Many jobs require weekend work hours
Emergency calls vary based on the type of practice you work in. Many patients with more urgent eye issues will be accommodated in clinic on the day they call (they are added to the schedule). As you triage theses patients and find what issues are causing the patient's issues, you can chose to treat the patient yourself or refer the patient to one of your opthalmology colleagues if they require more advanced care.
Rita recommends the following next steps:
Thank you very much for your time and response, it was helpful!
Sadi
Updated
Martin’s Answer
Optometry is a fantastic career path that offers you the freedom to manage your own work-life balance, whether you choose to establish your own practice or join an existing organization. This dynamic field goes beyond just prescribing glasses, as many might believe. Optometrists often play a crucial role in detecting early signs of eye diseases and conditions like hypertension or diabetes. Their expertise and abilities are greatly appreciated and respected.
Starting a solo practice may require some time to build a solid reputation, but once established, you'll enjoy a steady stream of loyal clients. If you opt to work for an organization, you'll face the typical challenges of completing exams within a set time frame and meeting sales targets for high-end frames and lenses with all the extra features.
The optometry program spans four years and admission can be competitive. However, don't be deterred! When it comes to gaining shadowing experience, a proactive approach of sending emails and showing up in person will surely pay off. It may seem daunting at first, but it's definitely achievable.
Starting a solo practice may require some time to build a solid reputation, but once established, you'll enjoy a steady stream of loyal clients. If you opt to work for an organization, you'll face the typical challenges of completing exams within a set time frame and meeting sales targets for high-end frames and lenses with all the extra features.
The optometry program spans four years and admission can be competitive. However, don't be deterred! When it comes to gaining shadowing experience, a proactive approach of sending emails and showing up in person will surely pay off. It may seem daunting at first, but it's definitely achievable.
This was super helpful, thank you!
Sadi
Updated
Bethanie’s Answer
Hello! My husband is an optometrist (I’m a dental hygienist). He has been practicing for 30 plus years and still enjoys his career. Emergency calls aren’t terrible, many can be handled over the phone but he is also more than willing to meet a patient at the office on nights or weekends when needed. As far as shadowing; I would recommend this for any field you’re interested in. Start with your own optometrist and ask if you can shadow.
This was super helpful, thank you!
Sadi
Updated
Joe’s Answer
Optometry can be a good career choice considering the current demand and supply dynamics, but it's essential to weigh various factors before making a decision. Here’s a breakdown of the key considerations:
Demand for Optometrists:
Aging Population:
The global population is aging, particularly in countries like the U.S. and Canada. As people age, they typically experience more vision problems, leading to increased demand for eye care services, including those provided by optometrists.
Conditions such as cataracts, glaucoma, and age-related macular degeneration are becoming more prevalent, driving the need for regular eye exams and treatment.
Increased Screen Time:
With the rise in screen use, both for work and leisure, more people are experiencing eye strain and other vision-related issues. This trend is likely to increase the demand for optometrists as more individuals seek eye care services.
Expanded Scope of Practice:
In many regions, the scope of practice for optometrists has expanded, allowing them to provide a broader range of services, such as managing eye diseases and prescribing medications. This expansion increases their role in the healthcare system and enhances job security.
Supply of Optometrists:
Educational Requirements:
Becoming an optometrist requires extensive education, including a Doctor of Optometry (OD) degree, which can limit the number of new professionals entering the field. However, this also means that the supply of optometrists remains controlled and relatively stable.
Regional Variations:
The supply of optometrists can vary by region. Urban areas may have a higher concentration of optometrists, leading to increased competition. In contrast, rural or underserved areas often experience a shortage of eye care professionals, presenting opportunities for those willing to relocate.
Job Market Outlook:
Positive Job Growth:
According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, the employment of optometrists is projected to grow 9% from 2020 to 2030, which is faster than the average for all occupations. This growth is driven by the factors mentioned above.
Income Potential:
Optometry is generally a well-paying profession, with the median annual wage in the U.S. being around $124,000 as of 2023. Income can vary based on location, experience, and whether an optometrist owns their practice.
Considerations:
Student Debt: The cost of optometry school can be high, leading to significant student debt. It's essential to consider this when evaluating the return on investment for this career.
Technological Advances: The field is evolving with advancements in tele-optometry and diagnostic tools, which could influence how services are delivered and impact the demand for traditional in-person eye exams.
Conclusion:
Optometry appears to be a strong career choice with a positive job outlook, particularly in regions with growing or aging populations. The combination of a stable supply, expanding roles, and increasing demand for eye care services supports the profession’s viability in the near future. However, prospective optometrists should also consider factors such as education costs, regional demand, and potential technological changes in the field.
Demand for Optometrists:
Aging Population:
The global population is aging, particularly in countries like the U.S. and Canada. As people age, they typically experience more vision problems, leading to increased demand for eye care services, including those provided by optometrists.
Conditions such as cataracts, glaucoma, and age-related macular degeneration are becoming more prevalent, driving the need for regular eye exams and treatment.
Increased Screen Time:
With the rise in screen use, both for work and leisure, more people are experiencing eye strain and other vision-related issues. This trend is likely to increase the demand for optometrists as more individuals seek eye care services.
Expanded Scope of Practice:
In many regions, the scope of practice for optometrists has expanded, allowing them to provide a broader range of services, such as managing eye diseases and prescribing medications. This expansion increases their role in the healthcare system and enhances job security.
Supply of Optometrists:
Educational Requirements:
Becoming an optometrist requires extensive education, including a Doctor of Optometry (OD) degree, which can limit the number of new professionals entering the field. However, this also means that the supply of optometrists remains controlled and relatively stable.
Regional Variations:
The supply of optometrists can vary by region. Urban areas may have a higher concentration of optometrists, leading to increased competition. In contrast, rural or underserved areas often experience a shortage of eye care professionals, presenting opportunities for those willing to relocate.
Job Market Outlook:
Positive Job Growth:
According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, the employment of optometrists is projected to grow 9% from 2020 to 2030, which is faster than the average for all occupations. This growth is driven by the factors mentioned above.
Income Potential:
Optometry is generally a well-paying profession, with the median annual wage in the U.S. being around $124,000 as of 2023. Income can vary based on location, experience, and whether an optometrist owns their practice.
Considerations:
Student Debt: The cost of optometry school can be high, leading to significant student debt. It's essential to consider this when evaluating the return on investment for this career.
Technological Advances: The field is evolving with advancements in tele-optometry and diagnostic tools, which could influence how services are delivered and impact the demand for traditional in-person eye exams.
Conclusion:
Optometry appears to be a strong career choice with a positive job outlook, particularly in regions with growing or aging populations. The combination of a stable supply, expanding roles, and increasing demand for eye care services supports the profession’s viability in the near future. However, prospective optometrists should also consider factors such as education costs, regional demand, and potential technological changes in the field.
Thank you very much for your time and response, it was helpful!
Sadi