An optometrist is a healthcare professional trained to examine eyes, measure vision, and detect many eye diseases. They are often the first point of contact for routine eye checks.
Key responsibilities
Optometrists combine refraction and health screening.
- Test visual acuity and prescribe glasses or contact lenses
- Check eye alignment, focusing, and binocular vision
- Examine the front and back of the eye for signs of disease
- Refer to ophthalmologists or GPs when medical or surgical treatment is needed
When to book with an optometrist
Regular visits support long‑term eye health.
- Routine sight tests for adults and children
- Monitoring of stable conditions such as mild cataract or dry eye
- Contact lens fitting and aftercare
- Urgent assessment schemes in some areas for red or painful eyes
