Need For Optometrists Is Increasing

A recent study published online in the British Journal of Ophthalmology states that there are 200

,000 practicing eye doctors around the world. While this number may seem high, it is, in fact, too low. Simply speaking, there arent enough optometrists to keep up with the current needs of developing countries. Not only are there not enough doctors to keep up with the trends, but with an increasing life expectancy, comes the demand for more eye doctors who specialize in eye issues of the aging population.

The study findings are based on a survey which the International Council of Ophthalmology supplied to 213 ophthalmic societies in 193 countries around the world. Out of the 193 countries contacted, only one did not reply or provide completed surveys. The point of the survey is to investigate how many optometrists are practicing their profession worldwide, and what the expected growth of the profession will be. This is good news for students who are studying for the NBEO exam, because according to the results of this study, your specific skills will be in high demand upon graduation.

Results showed that in 2010, nearly half of the 205,000 optometrists were in the United States, Brazil, China, Japan, India and Russia. The researchers noticed that the economic development of certain areas had a direct impact on the number of optometrists available to the public. For example, in a high-income area there were 79 optometrists per million, but in low-income areas there were 9 optometrists per million. Although the optometrists were just as qualified and certified, doctors in low-income areas tend to be more physically and mentally strained throughout the course of an average workday.

Interestingly enough, the highest numbers were in former communist regimes, and the lowest numbers were in sub-Saharan Africa. In 2010, the overall income of optometrists rose by 1.2 percent, especially in low-income areas. In addition to the general increase in population of these areas, the population of individuals ages 60+ is also dramatically rising. There are simply not enough optometrists to keep up with the growing population rates.

The number of individuals who will require eye care is growing two times as fast as the number of available optometrists. For example, from 2009 to 2010, the proportion of individuals aged 60+ increased by 2.9 percent. When compared to the 1.2 percent growth in practicing optometrists, it is obvious the profession needs more certified optometrists. So, if youre a student studying for the NBEO exam and worried about your future in the field, read the study and put your fears behind you!

by: schatzistef

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