Orthoptist : Job description

An orthoptist investigates, diagnoses and treats sight-related problems and abnormalities of eye movement and eye position.

Orthoptists carry out tests to diagnose problems and determine appropriate management. They work with patients of all ages, from the very young to the elderly, and use specialist skills to help improve their vision.

An orthoptist is usually a member of an eye care team working with patients who have eye problems and deals especially with problems related to:

• ocular motility (eye movement);
• binocular vision;
• amblyopia (lazy eye);
• strabismus (squint).

Orthoptists work predominantly in hospitals, but may also work in community healthcare and schools.

Typical work activities

Tasks regularly carried out by an orthoptist include:

• receiving patient referrals from the eye casualty and neurology departments, eye clinics, GPs, health visitors and community clinics;
• investigating patients clinically to assess their vision, eye position and eye movement, by observation and by the use of specialist equipment;
• making a diagnosis and formulating a treatment plan, which might involve referral for surgery or the use of more conservative orthoptic treatment, e.g. the use of a patch to treat a lazy eye;
• giving an explanation and full instructions to patients about the diagnosis and treatment programme suggested;
• offering continuity of care to patients when possible;
• working with a variety of patients ranging from babies to the elderly (depending on the setting);
• undertaking visual field assessments and participating in extended role activities, such as glaucoma monitoring clinics, low vision aid clinics and stroke clinics;
• working as part of a multidisciplinary team, liaising with occupational therapists, physiotherapists and nursing staff;
• undertaking general administrative duties relating to patient care;
• organising supplies for the department;
• training students on placement and other health professionals, e.g. GPs and optometry students;
• advising patients with low vision on the use of magnification and other strategies, such as lighting, to maximise their vision;
• maintaining involvement in departmental research projects, the collection of clinical data for audits and the establishment of relevant protocols;
• keeping up to date with current practices and recording work activities as part of continuing professional development (CPD).