How to become an Orthoptist – Key Basics

ABOUT THE ROLE

Orthoptists work with patients of all ages, children to the elderly, to investigate, diagnose and treat sight-related problems and abnormalities of eye movement and eye position. They carry out tests to diagnose vision issues and determine an appropriate management strategy such as daily eye drops for potential Glaucoma patients.

Typically a team member of a hospital eye care department, orthoptists work alongside ophthalmologists, optometrists and vision scientists to assist in treating cataracts, stroke induced issues, retinal disease, neurological disorders as well as glaucoma. However, nowadays, the professional role of an orthoptist often extends to work out in community healthcare centres or schools, where their patients have eye problems such as

Binocular vision	Strabismus
Ocular motility (eye movement)	Amblyopia (lazy eye)

EMPLOYABILITY

The skills and personal qualities expected in an orthoptist include confidence, the ability to communicate with a wide audience and competence. These are the skills that are predominately sought after but general employability skills should not be over looked as it is important to acquire these skills to work in any area of healthcare. They include: to have the following general employability skills

Self-management and the ability to work in a team
Scientific and enquiring nature, good problem solving skills
Excellent communication and literacy skills
Application of numeracy and information technology

CAREER ENTRY

There are only two universities in the UK which offer orthoptist courses. They are the University of Sheffield and the University of Liverpool. They both offer limited places so it is very important that you research this career as early as possible to ensure it is the right one for you. Entry requirements differ according to institution but the regular 5 (A*-C grade) GCSEs are required as are 3 A Levels or equivalent at a high grade/pass mark. It is recommended that you participate in relevant work experience prior to your application. It is not required, but it is essential you demonstrate commitment and understanding.

EMPLOYERS AND SALARIES

Orthoptics carry out their extensive range of eye care in a variety of settings, both publically and privately. These include eye hospitals, hospital eye departments, community health centres, schools, private clinics and universities. NHS, salaries vary according to level of expertise and experience