Navy Officer Subspecialty · Medical
1880 Optometry
An officer subspecialty earned alongside a primary designator, marking advanced education or experience in this field.
Overview
An optometrist examines eyes, identifies vision abnormalities, and prescribes corrective treatment. The optometrist directs eye protection programs and supervises optician technicians who fabricate and dispense spectacles.
Core Skills
- comprehensive eye examination
- vision testing
- ocular disease detection
- contact lens fitting
- refraction and prescribing
- corrective lens management
- eye protection programs
- optical team supervision
- clinical documentation
Civilian Software & Tools
- Apple Safari
- Microsoft Edge
- Mozilla Firefox
- Intuit QuickBooks
- Microsoft Access
- Microsoft Excel
- Microsoft SQL Server
- Microsoft Word
Civilian Career Paths
- Optometry
- Clinical Technician
- Public Health
Training & Development
Getting Started
- State Optometrist License
- State Licensed Optometrist
- Basic Life Support (BLS)
Career Growth
- American Board of Optometry Diplomate
- Certified Low Vision Therapist (CLVT)
- Certified Paraoptometric Assistant (CPOA)
What the Work Involves
- Examine eyes, using observation, instruments, and pharmaceutical agents, to determine visual acuity and perception, focus, and coordination and to diagnose diseases and other abnormalities, such as glaucoma or color blindness.
- Analyze test results and develop a treatment plan.
- Prescribe, supply, fit and adjust eyeglasses, contact lenses, and other vision aids.
- Prescribe medications to treat eye diseases if state laws permit.
- Educate and counsel patients on contact lens care, visual hygiene, lighting arrangements, and safety factors.
Related Occupations
- Ophthalmologists, Except Pediatric
- Pediatric Surgeons
- General Internal Medicine Physicians
- Dermatologists
Typical preparation for these civilian roles: graduate-level education or extensive experience.
Equivalent Roles in Other Branches
Descriptions may be summarized for clarity. Verify all information with your branch career counselor or official military documentation before making career decisions.
Report an error on this page