Orthoptist

Orthoptists detect, diagnose and treat disorders of the eye, both in relation to impaired vision and eye movement.

Orthoptists may perform the following tasks:

measure and assess visual acuity (ability to discriminate detail) and prescribe glasses where appropriate
investigate, monitor and assist in treating eye disorders such as glaucoma, cataracts, diabetic eye disease and age-related macular degeneration
measure and select intraocular (within the eye) lenses for cataract surgery
detect and manage eye movement disorders, such as strabismus (turned eye) and amblyopia (lazy eye), and their sensory consequences
conduct specialised diagnostic and imaging techniques (such as ultrasonography and topography) to determine the effects and progression of eye disease
assess and provide management strategies for individuals with neurological disorders
devise strategies for rehabilitating impaired vision and design therapy programs to maximise an individual's remaining vision
provide reports on the existence of eye defects to various practitioners and therapists, and to relevant authorities, such as transport authorities
provide educational information to patients, families and members of the community about eye conditions and their effects
assist the community by providing vision screening tests and promoting preventative eye health care.

Orthoptists may specialise in:

ophthalmic eye care, which involves treatment of general eye diseases such as glaucoma, cataracts, diabetic eye disease and age-related macular degeneration
neuro-ophthalmology, which involves the treatment of neurologically based eye disorders caused by stroke and head injury
eye movement disorders and paediatric eye care, involving the treatment of conditions such as strabismus, amblyopia and double vision
vision rehabilitation, involving maximising residual sight in individuals with low vision
education or research.

Orthoptists often work with ophthalmologists, medical practitioners and other allied health professionals.

Select the State/Territory you are interested in:

Job Guide