research and optometry

[kiseki]

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i realize that research isn't really a big topic in optometry and that of course, the profession is more about helping patients etc., but i'd like to know what kind of research optometrists can get into after opt. school.

for instance, are optometrists limited in what type of research they can do? is it possible for optometrists to participate in research on diseases such as glaucoma? or, if they can't, what type of research do most participate in?

i'm just getting into research as an undergrad and I know that whatever I do now is most likely not going to relate to what I might do if/when I get out of optometry school, but I'd just like any input on this. thanks! 😍

 

[jefguth]

i realize that research isn't really a big topic in optometry and that of course, the profession is more about helping patients etc., but i'd like to know what kind of research optometrists can get into after opt. school.

for instance, are optometrists limited in what type of research they can do? is it possible for optometrists to participate in research on diseases such as glaucoma? or, if they can't, what type of research do most participate in?

i'm just getting into research as an undergrad and I know that whatever I do now is most likely not going to relate to what I might do if/when I get out of optometry school, but I'd just like any input on this. thanks! 😍

It is possible for optometrists to be involved in research, however they usually require at least a Masters degree to do so.

Here is a list of the Research areas at the University of Waterloo School of Optometry:

Biomedical Ocular Research
Examples:
-pathophysiology of diseases
-imaging the anterior segment, fundus and retina
-ocular toxicity
-molecular and neural mechanisms of vision

Contact Lenses
Examples:
-biocompatability of contact lens materials
-ocular sensitivity and adverse response to contact lens wear
-development and evaluation of new contact lens products

Optometric Education & Practice
Examples:
-role of the profession in health care
-standards of vision care
-service quality and delivery
-education standards
-clinical documentation
-continuing education programs
-service delivery methods
-development of improved outcome measures

Low Vision Rehabilitation
Examples:
-electrophysiology of the eye
-psychophysics of low vision
-low visual assessment
-high technology sight enhancement aids
Vision and Ophthalmic Standards
Examples:
-developing & testing devices protecting from ocular hazards
-visual ergonomics
-safety standards
-vision standards

Visual Development & Refractive Correction
Examples:
-underlying causes of refractive error and presbyopia
-impact of ocular variation on oculo-motor responses
-effectiveness of vision screening procedures & instruments
-early identification of amelioration problems
-reducing the progression of refractive error
-refractive surgery
http://www.optometry.uwaterloo.ca/graduate/fields.html

 

[Kristene9]

Hey!

I'm not sure the total scope of research an optometist can do. I know that I have shadowed OD's that have published articles. I work in a lab that studies myopia and would like to do some research after I graduate. Some schools have an emphasis on research but not a separte degree. These require you do to a reseach progect before you graduate. I know Pacific and Northwestern (in Oklahoma) do.

Others have a joint degree. -- these can be nice becuase sometimes they will pay for part of your schooling! I know New England, SUNY, UAB, Houston, and Berkley have good programs.

Hope this Helps