4 Services Offered By An Optometrist

Eyecare is essential to maintaining your overall health and wellbeing. An optometrist can offer various services to help you keep your eyes healthy. Here are four services that an optometrist can provide for you. Read on to find out more!

1. Eye Exams

Optometrists, like other healthcare providers, follow the triad of health, which focuses on three key areas: maintenance (of existing health), treatment (of disease and injury) and promotion (to increase healthy behaviours). For example, optometrists diagnose and treat many eye conditions that can be prevented or detected when your eyes are checked. During an eye examination, your optometrist will assess:

• The general health of your eyes
• The overall look and feel of your eyes
• The internal structures of the front part of your eyes
• Your pupil size and reaction to light
• Your ability to distinguish objects clearly and accurately

If any problems are found, they can be treated before they worsen or become more complicated to correct.

2. Fitting Contact Lenses

Once an initial comprehensive exam has determined your prescription, it may need to be fine-tuned when fitting contact lenses. In some cases, your optometrist may recommend changing to another type of contact lens for optimal vision and comfort.

Soft Contact Lenses

These flexible lenses are worn directly on the cornea and can be used daily or for extended wear.

Rigid Gas Permeable (RGP or GP)

This hard contact lens rests on the sclera (the white part of your eye) and is typically only worn at night because it prevents oxygen from reaching the cornea.

3. Treatment of Eye Conditions and Diseases

Many eye conditions require treatment by an eye care professional, including dry eyes, allergies, eyelid problems, pink eye (conjunctivitis), macular degeneration, inflammation in the back of the eye (uveitis) and more. You can trust an optometrist to look after all aspects of your eye health based on individual circumstances and needs.

4. Referrals to Other Healthcare Professionals

Your optometrist can also help you make referrals if needed, including referrals to other types of healthcare professionals. For instance, many conditions require the expertise of a specialist such as an ophthalmologist. Rather than simply referring you based on symptoms, your optometrist will do their best to ensure that you are seen by an appropriate specialist for your needs.

For more information, contact an optometrist today. They will be happy to book you in for a consultation or initial assessment.