Hi all,
I am wondering how much of an emphasis is placed on medical treatment of eye conditions in the field of optometry. One of the main reasons I do not want to go to medical school is due to the heavy emphasis on treating the symptoms of diseases with medicine rather than digging to the root of the problem or stressing the importance of preventative "medicine." I am also big on naturopathic medicine. (Just for the record, I do realize that refracting is considered treating the symptom.) As far as treating dry eyes, infections, and diseases, is prescribing medicine the main remedy? Are there very many alternative treatment choices, and if so, are they covered in optometry school?
Also, can/do optometrists prescribe medicine for systemic conditions that they diagnose such as high blood pressure?
Thanks to all who take the time to respond!
I am wondering how much of an emphasis is placed on medical treatment of eye conditions in the field of optometry. One of the main reasons I do not want to go to medical school is due to the heavy emphasis on treating the symptoms of diseases with medicine rather than digging to the root of the problem or stressing the importance of preventative "medicine." I am also big on naturopathic medicine. (Just for the record, I do realize that refracting is considered treating the symptom.) As far as treating dry eyes, infections, and diseases, is prescribing medicine the main remedy? Are there very many alternative treatment choices, and if so, are they covered in optometry school?
Also, can/do optometrists prescribe medicine for systemic conditions that they diagnose such as high blood pressure?
Thanks to all who take the time to respond!