B Optom Course

Why Bachelor of Optometry?

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Optometry:

Optometry is an independent profession in eye care. Its practice includes a complete examination of the visual system required for the estimation of refractive errors. It also covers fitting, manufacturing and supplying of spectacles, contact lenses and all other optical aids.

“Optometry is a health care profession that is autonomous, educated and regulated (licensed/ registered), and optometrists are the primary health care practitioners of the eye and visual system who provide comprehensive eye and vision care, which includes refraction and dispensing, detection/diagnosis and management of disease in the eye, and the rehabilitation of conditions of the visual system. - World Council of Optometry

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Optometrist:

An optometrist is a primary health care professional who is institutionally educated and clinically trained in the art and science of Optometry. An optometrist is required to examine the eyes and the visual system, diagnose the visual problem, prescribe and provide remedial, corrective treatment.

If any pathological condition is detected during the examination, the optometrist refers the patient to an ophthalmologist (ophthalmic surgeon) for medical therapy and/or surgical correction. Optometric practice does not only include the determination of the refractive status of the eyes, prescribing and dispensing of glasses, but it has a wider scope than that. With the advancement of technology, and newer products being introduced in quick succession, an optometrist is also required to upgrade his knowledge continuously. For an optometrist to be a thorough professional, his optometric education through a proper channels is very important.

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Aim and Objectives:

To provide practical and comprehensive knowledge of examining, diagnosing, treating and managing the diseases, injuries and disorders of visual systems

To give enough exposure to fit, evaluate, prescribe and dispense spectacles and contact lens

To give exposure in the area of patient care

To provide opportunities to gain a higher level of independence in vision care

To make aware of the functioning of eye banks

To associate with Ophthalmologists and other health care professionals

To initiate the students into the realm of research in visual science

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Duration:

3 years + 1 year Clinical Experience (Internship)

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Bachelor in Optometry:

The program will lead to a basic degree in Optometry, which is considered as the minimum essential for statutory registration of optometrists in countries where Optometry has been brought under legislation.

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Duration of the course:

4 years comprising of 3 academic years of study (6 semesters) and 1 year of clinical experience / internship.