What is the scope of services included in optometry practice?

The scope of services included in optometry practice encompasses a comprehensive range of activities aimed at maintaining and improving visual health. This includes not only the prevention, diagnosis, and treatment of visual disorders but also the management of various eye conditions. Optometrists are trained to perform eye examinations, prescribe corrective lenses, and provide treatment for diseases and disorders affecting the eyes and visual system.

This broad scope distinguishes optometry from other fields, highlighting its role in overall health by addressing issues such as eye infections, chronic conditions like glaucoma, and systemic diseases that can manifest symptoms in the eyes. Consequently, optometrists play a critical role in both primary care and specialized treatment, which reflects the legal and professional standards set forth in California optometry laws.

In contrast, the other options are narrower in focus or do not adequately capture the full range of optometric services. For instance, simply diagnosing visual impairments limits the role of optometry to a single aspect of practice, without encompassing treatment or management. Research related to vision science is an important component of the field but does not reflect the direct services provided to patients. Finally, prescribing corrective lenses only offers a limited view of what optometrists do, as their training enables them to address a much wider array of visual issues