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What do Optometrists do?

Optometrists are trained to examine the eyes to detect defects in vision, signs of injury, ocular diseases or abnormality. This allows optometrists to manage cases independently or to recognise cases which may require onward referral, or joint care, with our ophthalmology medical colleagues. Patients will usually see a consultant ophthalmologist first, for a formal diagnosis, and will then be referred to an optometrist for ongoing care. Other patients, for example children who have a strabismus, also known as a squint, will often be managed by orthoptists and optometrists, working as a team.