Orthoptics

In order to identify and address eye issues, orthoptists collaborate with a group of specialists. Investigation, diagnosis, and treatment of visual impairments and abnormalities of eye movement are the areas of expertise of orthoptists. You'll learn about strabismus, diseases of the eyes, and problems with how the eyes move in individuals of all ages.

You must earn an orthoptics degree. Since there is fierce competition for spots on the orthoptics degree programs, you must demonstrate your understanding and devotion before applying. Before you apply for a course, it will be beneficial for you to gain some paid or unpaid experience in your neighborhood orthoptic department. For further information, you could speak with the chief orthoptist or the coordinator of volunteer services. You might have access to parts of the Learning Support Fund, which can pay for hardship, travel, and childcare expenses, in addition to student loans. The three to four-year undergraduate program includes both theoretical understanding and a significant amount of hands-on patient care. A two-year postgraduate option is also available.

Skills and knowledge

You'll require:

• the capacity for collaborative work

• empathy and understanding

• patience and the capacity to remain composed under pressure

• thoroughness and attention to detail; thinking and reasoning abilities

• medical knowledge and an understanding of how the human body functions

• a desire to collaborate with others

• knowledge of the English language

• and the ability to use a computer and the major software programs proficiently

Routine tasks

Your daily tasks may include diagnosing squints, lazy eyes (amblyopia), diminished or double vision, and difficulties brought on by accident or sickness. You may also manage illnesses like glaucoma, cataracts, stroke, retinal disease, and neurological disorders; advise using eye patches, eye workouts, contact lenses, or low vision aids as possible treatments. You will cooperate with a team of other healthcare professionals, such as ophthalmologists (eye surgeons), optometrists (who recommend and administer glasses and lenses), and vision scientists. Finally, you may test children's vision.

With practice, you might develop into a specialized orthoptist, for instance, dealing with children or stroke victims.

You could advance to the position of head or consultant orthoptist and oversee a group or division.

Additionally, you could pursue additional education to enter the fields of research or education, work in private practice, or open your own clinic.

Entry requirements in the UK

You must first successfully complete an orthoptics degree program at one of the four UK colleges that offers the program before you can practice as an orthoptist. The three to four-year undergraduate program includes both theoretical understanding and a significant amount of hands-on patient care. A two-year postgraduate option is also available. Before you can begin practicing after receiving your degree, you must register with the Health and Care Professions Council (HCPC).

Typically, an undergraduate course's entry criteria are:

• two or three A levels, including a science

• English language, math, and science are among the five GCSEs (grades A–C) required.