Diagnose sight problems, such as near-sightedness or farsightedness, and eye diseases, such as glaucoma
Prescribe eyeglasses, contact lenses, and other visual aids, and if state law permits, medications
Perform minor and major surgical procedures to correct or treat visual or eye health issues
Provide treatments such as vision therapy or low-vision rehabilitation
Provide pre- and postoperative care to patients undergoing eye surgery—for example, examining a patient's eyes the day after surgery
Evaluate patients for the presence of other diseases and conditions, such as diabetes or hypertension, and refer patients to other healthcare providers as needed
Promote eye and general health by counselling patients.