Navy
MEDICAL
Subspecialty

Officer Subspecialty

1880

Optometry

An officer subspecialty earned alongside a primary designator, marking advanced education or experience in this field.

Description

<strong>Optometrists</strong> conduct examine eyes and prescribe corrective treatment. Determine vision abnormalities which may be corrected by ophthalmic devices. Directs eye protection programs. Supervise optician technicians in fabricating and dispensing 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

Common Certifications

  • Doctor of Optometry
  • State Licensed Optometrist
  • American Board of Optometry Diplomate
  • National Board of Examiners in Optometry Certification
  • Basic Life Support
  • Certified Paraoptometric Assistant

Civilian Career Paths

  • OPTOMETRY
  • CLINICAL TECHNICIAN
  • PUBLIC HEALTH

Training & Development

Getting Started

  • Doctor of Optometry
  • State Licensed Optometrist
  • Basic Life Support
  • National Board of Examiners in Optometry Certification

Career Growth

  • American Board of Optometry Diplomate
  • Fellow of the American Academy of Optometry
  • Certified Specialist in Low Vision Rehabilitation
  • Certified Paraoptometric Assistant

Equivalent Roles in Other Branches

Data sourced from official Navy publications and public military occupational references. Descriptions may be summarized for clarity. Verify all information with your branch career counselor or official military documentation before making career decisions.