Top 25 Optometrists Across the US
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What is an Optometrist?
Learn about this specialty, training requirements, and when to schedule a visit.
An optometrist is a licensed healthcare professional who provides primary vision care, including comprehensive eye examinations, diagnosis and treatment of vision problems, and detection of eye diseases. Optometrists (Doctors of Optometry, or ODs) are trained to prescribe glasses and contact lenses, diagnose conditions like glaucoma, cataracts, and macular degeneration, manage dry eye disease, and provide pre- and post-operative care for eye surgery. They play a crucial role in detecting systemic health conditions such as diabetes and hypertension through eye examinations.
Training and Qualifications
Becoming an optometrist requires extensive education and training:
- 4-year undergraduate degree, typically with pre-requisite science courses
- 4 years of Doctor of Optometry (OD) program at an accredited optometry school
- Completion of clinical rotations in various settings including hospitals, clinics, and specialty practices
- Optional 1-year residency for additional specialization in areas like pediatric optometry, low vision, or ocular disease
- State licensure requiring passage of the National Board of Examiners in Optometry (NBEO) examinations
- Continuing education requirements to maintain licensure (varies by state, typically 20-40 hours annually)
Board Certification: Optometrists must pass the National Board of Examiners in Optometry (NBEO) examinations to obtain licensure. The NBEO consists of multiple parts covering basic science, clinical science, and patient care. Optometrists may also pursue board certification through the American Board of Optometry (ABO), which demonstrates a commitment to maintaining clinical excellence through ongoing assessment.
When Should You See an Optometrist?
You should consider seeing an optometrist if:
- You need a routine eye exam (recommended annually or as advised based on age and health conditions)
- You experience blurry vision, difficulty reading, or trouble seeing at distance
- You need a prescription for glasses or contact lenses
- You have symptoms of dry, itchy, or irritated eyes
- You notice eye strain, headaches, or fatigue after reading or computer use
- You have diabetes and need annual diabetic eye exams to check for retinopathy
- You have a family history of eye diseases like glaucoma or macular degeneration
- Your child needs a pediatric vision screening or eye exam
- You experience sudden changes in vision, floaters, or flashes of light
- You need contact lens fitting, including specialty lenses for astigmatism or presbyopia
Key Facts
Common Conditions Treated
Optometrists are trained to diagnose and treat a wide range of conditions. Here are some of the most common conditions that optometrists help patients manage.
Refractive Errors (Myopia, Hyperopia, Astigmatism)
Common vision problems where the eye cannot properly focus light on the retina. Myopia (nearsightedness) causes distant objects to appear blurry, hyperopia (farsightedness) makes close objects difficult to see, and astigmatism causes distorted vision at all distances due to irregular corneal shape.
Key Symptoms
Treatment Approach
Optometrists perform comprehensive refractive exams to determine precise prescription for glasses or contact lenses. They can fit various lens types including progressive lenses, bifocals, and specialty contact lenses. For patients interested in reducing dependence on glasses, optometrists provide pre-operative evaluations and post-operative care for LASIK and other refractive surgeries.
Dry Eye Disease
A chronic condition where the eyes don't produce enough tears or the tear quality is poor, leading to inflammation and damage to the eye surface. Often caused by aging, environmental factors, medications, screen use, or autoimmune conditions. Affects an estimated 16 million Americans.
Key Symptoms
Treatment Approach
Optometrists diagnose dry eye using specialized tests to evaluate tear production and quality. Treatment plans may include artificial tears, prescription eye drops (like cyclosporine or lifitegrast), punctal plugs to retain tears, warm compresses, lid hygiene, and addressing underlying causes. They may also recommend lifestyle modifications and nutritional supplements like omega-3 fatty acids.
Glaucoma
A group of eye diseases that damage the optic nerve, often associated with elevated eye pressure. Glaucoma is a leading cause of irreversible blindness worldwide. Primary open-angle glaucoma develops gradually without early symptoms, making regular screening essential for early detection.
Key Symptoms
Treatment Approach
Optometrists screen for glaucoma by measuring eye pressure (tonometry), examining the optic nerve, and testing peripheral vision. They use advanced imaging (OCT) to detect early nerve damage. Many optometrists manage glaucoma with prescription eye drops to lower eye pressure. For advanced cases or surgical candidates, they refer to and co-manage with ophthalmologists while providing ongoing monitoring.
Diabetic Eye Disease (Diabetic Retinopathy)
A complication of diabetes that affects blood vessels in the retina. High blood sugar levels can damage small blood vessels, causing them to leak, swell, or close off. Without treatment, diabetic retinopathy can progress to vision loss. All diabetics should have annual dilated eye exams.
Key Symptoms
Treatment Approach
Optometrists perform comprehensive diabetic eye exams including dilated fundus examination and retinal imaging to detect early signs of diabetic retinopathy. They monitor disease progression, coordinate with primary care physicians and endocrinologists about blood sugar control, and refer for laser treatment or injections when needed. Early detection through regular exams can prevent 90% of diabetes-related vision loss.
Cataracts
Clouding of the eye's natural lens that causes progressive vision impairment. Cataracts develop slowly and are primarily age-related, though they can occur due to injury, medications, or other health conditions. By age 80, more than half of Americans have cataracts or have had cataract surgery.
Key Symptoms
Treatment Approach
Optometrists diagnose cataracts during comprehensive eye exams and monitor their progression. They help manage early cataracts with updated prescriptions and glare-reducing lenses. When surgery is needed, optometrists refer to ophthalmologists and provide important pre-operative measurements and post-operative care, including monitoring healing and prescribing glasses after surgery.
Age-Related Macular Degeneration (AMD)
A progressive disease affecting the macula, the central part of the retina responsible for sharp, detailed vision. AMD is the leading cause of severe vision loss in people over 50. It occurs in dry (more common) and wet (more severe) forms.
Key Symptoms
Treatment Approach
Optometrists screen for AMD during routine exams using dilated examination and retinal imaging. They monitor dry AMD progression and recommend lifestyle changes and nutritional supplements (AREDS2 formula) shown to slow progression. They refer wet AMD cases urgently for treatment with injections and provide low vision rehabilitation services to maximize remaining vision.
Conjunctivitis (Pink Eye)
Inflammation or infection of the conjunctiva, the clear tissue covering the white part of the eye and inner eyelids. Can be caused by viruses, bacteria, allergies, or irritants. Highly contagious in infectious forms but usually resolves with appropriate treatment.
Key Symptoms
Treatment Approach
Optometrists diagnose the type of conjunctivitis and prescribe appropriate treatment. Bacterial conjunctivitis typically requires antibiotic eye drops, while viral conjunctivitis is managed with supportive care. Allergic conjunctivitis is treated with antihistamine drops and allergen avoidance strategies. They also rule out more serious conditions that can mimic pink eye.
Presbyopia
Age-related loss of the eye's ability to focus on near objects, typically becoming noticeable around age 40. Occurs as the lens becomes less flexible. A normal part of aging that affects virtually everyone.
Key Symptoms
Treatment Approach
Optometrists prescribe various solutions for presbyopia including reading glasses, bifocals, progressive lenses, and multifocal contact lenses. They help patients choose the best option based on lifestyle, work requirements, and visual needs. They also discuss surgical options like monovision LASIK or refractive lens exchange for appropriate candidates.
Computer Vision Syndrome (Digital Eye Strain)
A group of eye and vision-related problems resulting from prolonged computer, tablet, phone, or e-reader use. Extended screen time reduces blink rate, leading to dry eyes and eye strain. Affects an estimated 50-90% of people who work at computers.
Key Symptoms
Treatment Approach
Optometrists evaluate visual demands and prescribe computer glasses with appropriate lens powers and coatings to reduce strain. They recommend workspace ergonomic adjustments, proper lighting, and the 20-20-20 rule (every 20 minutes, look at something 20 feet away for 20 seconds). They may also prescribe dry eye treatments and blue light filtering lenses when beneficial.
Pediatric Vision Problems
Vision issues in children including amblyopia (lazy eye), strabismus (crossed eyes), and uncorrected refractive errors. Early detection is crucial as vision problems can affect learning, development, and academic performance. The American Optometric Association recommends first eye exam at 6-12 months of age.
Key Symptoms
Treatment Approach
Pediatric-trained optometrists perform age-appropriate vision exams even for pre-verbal children using specialized techniques and equipment. They detect and treat refractive errors, prescribe glasses, manage amblyopia with patching or atropine drops, and coordinate strabismus care. Early intervention is critical as the visual system develops primarily in the first 7-8 years of life.
Important Note
This list represents common conditions but is not exhaustive. Optometrists treat many other conditions related to their specialty. If you're experiencing symptoms or have concerns, consult with a qualified optometrist for a proper evaluation.
What to Expect During Your Visit
Understanding what happens during your appointment can help you feel more prepared. Here's what you can typically expect when visiting an optometrist.
Your First Visit
- Comprehensive medical and ocular history including current medications, allergies, family eye disease history, and general health conditions
- Review of visual symptoms, concerns, and lifestyle factors (occupation, hobbies, screen time)
- Visual acuity testing to measure how clearly you see at various distances
- Refraction assessment to determine exact prescription for glasses or contacts
- Eye coordination and focusing tests to evaluate how well your eyes work together
- Color vision testing and depth perception evaluation
- Eye health examination using specialized instruments and often dilating drops
- Discussion of findings, recommendations, and any follow-up care needed
- Comprehensive eye exam typically takes 45-90 minutes depending on complexity
Diagnosis & Testing
- Visual acuity test: Reading letters on an eye chart to measure sharpness of vision at distance and near
- Refraction: Using a phoropter (instrument with multiple lenses) to determine precise eyeglass prescription
- Slit lamp examination: Microscope with bright light to examine eyelids, cornea, iris, and lens in detail
- Tonometry: Measuring eye pressure to screen for glaucoma (puff of air or gentle probe)
- Dilated fundus examination: Using drops to widen pupils for thorough examination of retina, optic nerve, and blood vessels
- Visual field testing: Checking peripheral vision to detect blind spots or nerve damage
- OCT (Optical Coherence Tomography): Imaging scan that shows cross-sections of retinal layers to detect early disease
- Retinal photography: Digital images of the back of the eye for documentation and comparison over time
- Corneal topography: Mapping the cornea's shape for contact lens fitting or detecting conditions like keratoconus
Treatment Options
- Prescription eyeglasses: Single vision, bifocals, progressive lenses, or specialty lenses tailored to visual needs
- Contact lenses: Soft, rigid gas permeable, specialty lenses for astigmatism, presbyopia, or keratoconus
- Prescription eye medications: Drops or ointments for infections, inflammation, glaucoma, dry eye, and allergies
- Vision therapy: Structured program of visual activities to improve eye coordination, focusing, and visual processing
- Dry eye treatments: Artificial tears, prescription drops, punctal plugs, warm compresses, lid hygiene protocols
- Low vision rehabilitation: Magnifiers, special lighting, and adaptive strategies for those with permanent vision loss
- Orthokeratology: Specially designed contact lenses worn overnight to temporarily reshape cornea and reduce myopia
- Referral and co-management: Coordination with ophthalmologists for surgery or advanced medical eye care
- Lifestyle and environmental recommendations: Workplace ergonomics, UV protection, nutrition for eye health
Tip for Your Visit
Bring a list of current medications, previous test results, and questions you want to ask. Writing down your symptoms—when they occur and what affects them—helps your optometrist provide accurate diagnosis and effective treatment.
How to Choose the Right Optometrist
Finding the right healthcare provider is important for your health and peace of mind. Here are key factors to consider when selecting an optometrist.
Credentials to Verify
- Doctor of Optometry (OD) degree from an accredited optometry school
- Current state license to practice optometry
- Passed National Board of Examiners in Optometry (NBEO) examinations
- Optional board certification through American Board of Optometry (ABO)
- Residency training for specialists in pediatric optometry, low vision, ocular disease, or contact lenses
- Member of professional organizations like American Optometric Association (AOA) or state optometric associations
Important Considerations
- Specialty expertise matching your needs (pediatrics, contact lenses, dry eye, low vision, sports vision)
- Range of services offered (medical eye care, specialty contact lens fitting, vision therapy)
- Technology and equipment available (OCT imaging, digital refraction, corneal topography)
- In-network status with your vision or medical insurance plan
- Office location and hours that fit your schedule, including weekend or evening availability
- On-site optical shop quality and frame/lens selection
- Emergency care availability and after-hours coverage
- Patient reviews highlighting communication, thoroughness, and wait times
- Experience with your specific condition or needs (diabetes, glaucoma management, pediatric care)
- Relationships with local ophthalmologists for referrals when surgical care is needed
Quick Tip
Don't hesitate to schedule consultations with multiple optometrists before making your decision. The right fit isn't just about credentials—it's also about feeling comfortable and confident in your care.
Cost and Insurance Information
Understanding the costs associated with seeing an optometrist can help you plan for your healthcare needs.
Average Costs (Without Insurance)
Initial Visit
$100-$250
Follow-up Visit
$75-$150
Common Procedures
Note: These are estimated average costs and can vary based on location, provider, and specific services required.
Insurance Coverage
- Vision insurance plans (VSP, EyeMed, Davis Vision) typically cover annual routine eye exams with copays of $10-$25
- Vision insurance usually provides allowances for glasses ($100-$200) or contact lenses
- Medical insurance (not vision insurance) covers eye exams for medical conditions like dry eye, glaucoma, or diabetic eye disease
- Medical eye exams may require specialist copay ($30-$75) similar to other specialists
- Contact lens fittings may require additional out-of-pocket costs even with vision coverage
- Premium lens options (progressive, anti-reflective coatings, photochromic) often exceed insurance allowances
- FSA and HSA funds can be used for eye exams, glasses, contacts, and prescription sunglasses
- Some employers offer vision insurance as an add-on benefit with affordable premiums
Medicare Information
Original Medicare Part B covers annual dilated eye exams for patients with diabetes and annual glaucoma screening for high-risk individuals. Routine vision exams for glasses prescriptions are generally not covered by Medicare. Medicare covers treatment of eye diseases and conditions. Medicare Advantage plans often include additional vision benefits for routine eye care and eyewear allowances.
Money-Saving Tips
- 1Always verify your optometrist is in-network before scheduling
- 2Ask about self-pay discounts if you don't have insurance
- 3Inquire about payment plans for expensive procedures
- 4Get prior authorization when required to avoid claim denials
- 5Use FSA or HSA funds for eligible medical expenses
Questions to Ask Your Optometrist
Being prepared for your appointment helps you get the most out of your time with your doctor. Here are important questions to consider asking an optometrist.
Based on my exam results, how healthy are my eyes and what is my risk for eye disease?
How often should I have comprehensive eye exams given my age, health conditions, and family history?
What type of glasses or contact lenses would work best for my lifestyle and visual needs?
Are there any signs of diabetes, high blood pressure, or other health conditions visible in my eye exam?
What can I do to protect my vision and prevent eye problems as I age?
Should I be concerned about my screen time, and what can I do to reduce digital eye strain?
Are there any lifestyle changes or nutritional supplements that would benefit my eye health?
What symptoms should prompt me to call or come in before my next scheduled exam?
If I have dry eyes, what treatment options are available and which would you recommend for my situation?
When should my children have their first eye exams, and what should I watch for at home?
Pro Tip
Write down your questions before your appointment and bring them with you. Don't hesitate to take notes during your visit or ask for written instructions.
When to Seek Emergency Care
Know when symptoms require immediate attention versus a scheduled appointment.
While most conditions can wait for a scheduled appointment with a optometrist, certain symptoms require immediate emergency care. Go to the emergency room or call 911 if you experience:
- Sudden vision loss in one or both eyes - this is a medical emergency requiring immediate care
- Sudden onset of flashes of light, especially with new floaters or a curtain/shadow in peripheral vision (possible retinal detachment)
- Eye injury from trauma, chemicals, or foreign objects embedded in the eye
- Sudden severe eye pain, especially with redness, nausea, vomiting, and halos around lights (possible acute angle-closure glaucoma)
- Sudden double vision, especially if accompanied by headache, dizziness, or weakness
- Signs of eye infection with significant swelling, severe pain, or vision changes
- Chemical exposure to the eye - rinse immediately with water and seek emergency care
- Sudden bulging of one or both eyes with vision changes or pain
EMERGENCY
Call 911 or nearest ER
URGENT
Doctor or urgent care
NON-URGENT
Regular appointment
Optometrist vs. Other Specialists
Understanding the differences between medical specialists helps you choose the right provider for your needs.
Optometrist vs. Ophthalmologist
An optometrist (OD) provides primary eye care including comprehensive exams, prescribes glasses and contacts, diagnoses eye conditions, and treats many eye diseases with medications. An ophthalmologist (MD/DO) is a medical doctor with surgical training who can perform all eye surgeries (cataract, LASIK, retinal surgery) in addition to medical eye care. For routine exams, glasses, contacts, and non-surgical eye disease management, either can help. See an ophthalmologist for surgery, complex medical conditions, or when referred by your optometrist.
Optometrist vs. Optician
An optometrist is a doctor who examines eyes, diagnoses conditions, prescribes corrective lenses, and treats eye diseases. An optician is a technician who fills prescriptions by fitting and dispensing glasses and contact lenses - they cannot examine eyes, diagnose conditions, or write prescriptions. Think of it like the difference between a pharmacist and a doctor: the optometrist diagnoses and prescribes, the optician fills the prescription.
Optometrist vs. Retina Specialist
An optometrist provides comprehensive primary eye care and can diagnose retinal conditions during routine exams. A retina specialist is an ophthalmologist with additional fellowship training specifically in diseases of the retina and vitreous (back of the eye). Optometrists typically detect conditions like diabetic retinopathy or macular degeneration and refer to retina specialists for advanced treatments like injections, laser therapy, or retinal surgery.
Optometrist vs. Pediatric Ophthalmologist
An optometrist can examine children of all ages and treat many pediatric vision problems including prescribing glasses for children and managing mild amblyopia (lazy eye). A pediatric ophthalmologist is a surgeon specializing in children's eye conditions, particularly those requiring surgery like significant strabismus (crossed eyes), congenital cataracts, or blocked tear ducts. Optometrists often co-manage pediatric patients with pediatric ophthalmologists when surgical intervention is needed.
Not sure which specialist you need?
Your primary care physician can help determine the right specialist for your condition and provide a referral if needed.
Sources & References
Information about optometrists is sourced from peer-reviewed medical literature and authoritative organizations.
Last updated: March 2026
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Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions about optometrists
What is the difference between an optometrist and an ophthalmologist?
An optometrist (OD) is a doctor of optometry who provides primary eye care including comprehensive eye exams, prescribes glasses and contacts, diagnoses eye conditions, and treats many eye diseases with medications. An ophthalmologist (MD or DO) is a medical doctor who completed medical school plus ophthalmology residency and can perform eye surgery in addition to everything an optometrist does. For routine eye care, glasses, contacts, and management of common conditions, an optometrist is appropriate. Ophthalmologists are needed for surgery (cataract, LASIK, retinal surgery) and complex medical eye conditions. Many patients see optometrists for primary care and are referred to ophthalmologists when surgery or specialized treatment is needed.
How often should I have an eye exam?
The American Optometric Association recommends comprehensive eye exams at these intervals: infants should have their first exam between 6-12 months, children ages 3-5 should have at least one exam, school-age children (6-17) should have annual exams since vision changes frequently during growth, adults ages 18-64 with no risk factors every 1-2 years, and adults 65 and older should have annual exams. More frequent exams are recommended if you have diabetes, high blood pressure, a family history of eye disease, wear contact lenses, or have any existing eye conditions. Your optometrist will recommend the appropriate schedule based on your individual risk factors.
Do I need a separate exam for contact lenses?
Yes, a contact lens exam is separate from and in addition to a comprehensive eye exam. While your glasses prescription determines the lenses needed for distance correction, a contact lens fitting requires additional measurements of your cornea's shape and size, evaluation of your tear film quality, determination of the best lens type for your eyes and lifestyle, training on insertion, removal, and care, and follow-up visits to ensure proper fit. Contact lens prescriptions also include parameters like base curve and diameter that aren't part of a glasses prescription. The fitting fee varies based on lens complexity.
What is a dilated eye exam and why is it important?
A dilated eye exam uses special drops to widen (dilate) your pupils, allowing the optometrist to see a much larger area of the inside of your eye, including the retina, optic nerve, and blood vessels. This is crucial for detecting conditions like glaucoma, macular degeneration, diabetic retinopathy, and even signs of high blood pressure or brain tumors that may not cause symptoms until advanced. The drops take about 20-30 minutes to work, and the effects (blurry near vision and light sensitivity) last 4-6 hours. Bring sunglasses and consider having someone drive you home. Dilation is recommended at least every 1-2 years for most adults and annually for those with diabetes or at higher risk for eye disease.
Can optometrists prescribe medications?
Yes, optometrists in all 50 states are licensed to prescribe medications for eye conditions. This includes antibiotic drops for infections, anti-inflammatory medications, glaucoma drops to lower eye pressure, allergy eye drops, and medications for dry eye disease. The specific scope of prescriptive authority varies slightly by state, but most optometrists can prescribe the same eye medications as ophthalmologists. For chronic conditions like glaucoma, many patients receive ongoing care and prescriptions from their optometrist, who monitors the condition and adjusts treatment as needed.
What should I bring to my eye exam?
Bring your current glasses and/or contact lenses (even if you think the prescription is outdated), your contact lens boxes or prescription for brand and specifications, a list of all medications you take (including eye drops and supplements), your vision and/or medical insurance cards, a list of any eye or vision symptoms you've been experiencing, information about your family's eye health history (glaucoma, macular degeneration, etc.), and sunglasses in case your eyes are dilated. If you have medical records from previous eye doctors, those can be helpful too. Having this information ensures a thorough exam and accurate assessment.
Why do I need annual diabetic eye exams?
Diabetic retinopathy, the leading cause of blindness in working-age adults, often has no symptoms until significant damage has occurred. Annual dilated eye exams can detect early changes in the retinal blood vessels before you notice any vision problems. With early detection, treatments like laser therapy or injections can prevent 90% of severe vision loss. The exam also checks for other diabetes-related issues like cataracts (which develop earlier in diabetics), glaucoma, and changes indicating poor blood sugar control. Your optometrist will send a report to your primary care doctor or endocrinologist as part of your overall diabetes management.
At what age should children have their first eye exam?
The American Optometric Association recommends a first comprehensive eye exam between 6 and 12 months of age, a second exam at age 3, another before starting school (age 5-6), and then annually throughout school years. Children don't need to know letters - optometrists use age-appropriate tests with pictures, shapes, or objective measurements that don't require responses. Early exams are crucial because 80% of learning is visual, vision problems can be mistaken for learning disabilities or attention issues, conditions like amblyopia (lazy eye) must be treated early for best outcomes, and many children don't know what 'normal' vision looks like and won't complain.
Can an optometrist detect health problems beyond the eyes?
Yes, a comprehensive eye exam can reveal signs of over 270 systemic health conditions. The eye is the only place in the body where blood vessels and nerve tissue can be directly observed without surgery. Optometrists may detect signs of diabetes (blood vessel changes in the retina), high blood pressure (narrowing or bleeding in retinal vessels), high cholesterol (deposits in or around the eye), autoimmune diseases (inflammation patterns), certain cancers (tumors or unusual growths), neurological conditions (optic nerve changes), and thyroid disease (eye protrusion or movement issues). These findings often prompt referrals to appropriate specialists for further evaluation and treatment.
What is the difference between vision insurance and medical insurance for eye care?
Vision insurance (like VSP or EyeMed) covers routine preventive eye care - annual exams to update glasses/contact prescriptions and provides allowances toward eyewear. It's designed for maintaining healthy vision but not treating disease. Medical insurance covers eye exams and treatment when you have a medical eye condition like dry eye disease, glaucoma, cataracts, diabetic retinopathy, eye infections, or injuries. If you come in for a routine exam and the optometrist discovers a medical condition, the visit may be billed to your medical insurance instead of or in addition to your vision plan. Some patients have both types of coverage, using vision insurance for annual wellness exams and medical insurance when problems arise.
Medical Disclaimer
This information is for educational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always consult your physician or qualified health provider with questions about a medical condition. If you have a medical emergency, call 911.
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