Role

Orthoptist

What is an orthoptist?

Orthoptists diagnose and treat problems affecting how eye structures develop and how the brain controls eye movements. Issues can involve the muscles around the eye, the nerves connecting the eye and the brain or the cells that make vision develop.

Orthoptists focus on improving and treating eye disorders and visual impairments such as double vision, reduced vision and squint. They also investigate neurological conditions like multiple sclerosis and Parkinson’s disease. Orthoptists work with a variety of age groups ranging from children to elderly.

What does an orthoptist do on a daily basis?

  • Complete assessments such as motor testing, vision screening and colour vision testing
  • Diagnose and treat eye disorders
  • Complete treatment reports/plans regarding their service users
  • Collaboratively work with the MDT and discuss service users progress
  • Read and interpret clinical test results
  • Provide advice to service users and family members about their condition
  • Offer a range of treatment such as eye patches, exercises, prisms and glasses.

Where do orthoptist’s work?

  • Hospitals
  • Outpatient clinics
  • Community
  • Health centre
  • Day nursery/ special educational needs school
  • School clinic or mobile clinic

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