Will My Optometrist Job Last?
OptometristOverall Assessment
Optometry faces some pressure from online vision tests and eyewear retailers, but comprehensive eye health examination requires clinical expertise. The medical aspects of optometry are protected, though retail optical faces disruption.
Task Automation Timeline
3 Years
20%
tasks automated
5 Years
30%
tasks automated
7 Years
40%
tasks automated
Routine Task Automation
35%
Basic vision tests can be automated; diagnosis requires expertise.
Complex Task Automation
20%
Eye health assessment and treatment need human skills.
Job Market Outlook
+15%
Aging population and screen time increase demand.
Wage Pressure
25%
Online retailers pressure optical sales margins.
Reskill Urgency
30%
Technology is supplementary; clinical skills remain paramount.
Steps to strengthen your position
- 1Focus on medical eye care and disease management
- 2Develop expertise in specialty contact lenses
- 3Build referral relationships with ophthalmologists
- 4Consider dry eye and myopia management services
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