How To Be An Optometrist - Optometrist

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So you want to be an optometrist, but, where do you begin your journey? Well, I am here to tell you step by step on how you can be an optometrist.

What is Optometry?

Optometry is a vital healthcare profession dedicated to the examination, diagnosis, and treatment of disorders and diseases of the eye and visual system. Optometrists are primary eye care professionals who play a crucial role in maintaining the health and well-being of individuals by providing comprehensive eye care services. They are trained to examine the eyes for problems, provide care and treatment to maintain and restore eyesight, and prescribe medications to treat eye diseases. With the expertise in optometry, optometrists ensure that patients can enjoy clear vision and healthy eyes, contributing significantly to their overall quality of life.

A Passion For Optometry

First and foremost, you must have a passion in optometry. You must have the desire to help others with their eyes. Ensuring that they can see the world clearly and be comfortable at the same time. Making sure they have healthy eyes and catch any illnesses that may occur.

Education and Qualifications

To become an optometrist in Malaysia, one must possess a degree in optometry from a recognized institution. The Malaysian Optical Council (MOC) is the regulatory body that oversees the practice of optometry in Malaysia. To register with the MOC, you must have a degree in optometry from a recognized institution and pass the Professional Qualifying Assessment (PQA) conducted by the MOC. Additionally, optometrists must also complete a residency program and obtain a license to practice. This rigorous educational path ensures that optometrists are well-equipped with the knowledge and skills necessary to provide high-quality eye care.

A Simple Step by Step

Get into a Pure Science Stream or “Sains Tulen” for your SPM or other secondary education. Any sciences stream will do.
Enroll in a college or university. You can start your journey with A-Levels, STPM, Matriculation, Pre-University, Foundation in Science or Diploma.
The conditions to enter each of this tertiary education would depend on the road you choose and what college. For example, some colleges require at least 3 credit points and minimum 2 credit points either in Biology, Physics, Mathematics, and English. This varies. Additionally, you may need to pass the Professional Qualifying Assessment (PQA).
Afterward, you must continue to get your Degree in Optometry. Again, to enroll to get your degree would depend highly on which university you go to. Find out more.
During your Degree period, you are required to part take in clinical training at clinics, optometry practices, LASIK centers, eye departments in hospitals and other eye-related facilities.
After you have graduated with a degree in your hand, you may now proceed with the registration to the Malaysian Optical Council (MOC).

These are the steps that you have to take to become an optometrist. At the end of the day, your passion and drive should be the reason for your career choices. A job that you are passionate about is not a job.

Skills and Traits Required

To succeed as an optometrist, one must possess certain skills and traits. These include:

Strong scientific knowledge and understanding of the human eye and visual system.
Excellent communication and interpersonal skills to interact with patients and other healthcare professionals.
Attention to detail and ability to detect even the smallest abnormalities in the eye.
Ability to think critically and solve problems effectively.
Compassion and empathy to provide care and support to patients.
Ability to work well under pressure and make quick decisions.

These skills and traits are essential for providing the best possible care to patients and ensuring their eye health and well-being.

Career Options and Job Prospects

Optometrists have a wide range of career options and job prospects. They can work in private practice, hospitals, clinics, research institutions, and industry. They can also work in education, teaching and training other optometrists. With a degree in optometry, one can also pursue a career in research and development, creating new products and technologies. Additionally, optometrists can also work in government, creating policies and regulations related to eye care. The diverse career opportunities available to optometrists make it a rewarding and fulfilling profession.

Choosing an Optometry Program

When choosing an optometry program, there are several factors to consider. These include:

Accreditation: Look for programs that are accredited by the Malaysian Optical Council (MOC).
Curriculum: Ensure that the program covers all aspects of optometry, including clinical practice, research, and education.
Faculty: Look for programs with experienced and qualified faculty members.
Facilities: Ensure that the program has state-of-the-art facilities and equipment.
Location: Consider the location of the program and its proximity to hospitals and clinics.
Cost: Consider the cost of the program and any financial aid available.

By considering these factors, you can choose an optometry program that meets your needs and provides you with the skills and knowledge required to succeed as an optometrist.

Here at MALAYA OPTICAL, we welcome you to join our family and with our experienced and skilled optometrists, we can help you grow to be a better person, an optometrist, and fun doing that along the way. Being an optometrist is not about just being competent in checking eyes, but is a lot more. At Malaya Optical we will teach you what it takes to be an optometrist, not just an optometrist but a successful optometrist.

Submit your applications or contact us for more information.