orthoptisten

An orthoptist is a healthcare professional who specializes in the assessment and management of binocular vision disorders and ocular motility. They work as part of eye-care teams, often within ophthalmology clinics, hospitals, or specialized eye centers, with a focus on both children and adults presenting with vision and alignment problems. Core activities include evaluating ocular alignment and binocular function, measuring eye movements, and testing visual function to aid diagnosis of conditions such as strabismus, amblyopia, diplopia, and convergence disorders. Orthoptists contribute to treatment planning and may supervise or deliver therapies designed to improve binocular vision, such as occlusion or vision therapy, and they often assist with pre- and post-operative care for strabismus or other ocular procedures.

Education and professional status vary by country. Orthoptists typically complete a specialized higher education program resulting in a bachelor’s or master’s degree in orthoptics and obtain registration or licensure with a national health regulator. Ongoing professional development is common. The exact scope of practice differs internationally: in some regions orthoptists work largely under the supervision of ophthalmologists, while in others they provide a broader range of independent assessments and management within eye clinics.

Work settings and collaboration: Orthoptists collaborate closely with ophthalmologists, optometrists, pediatricians, and other eye-care professionals. They are frequently involved in pediatric vision screening programs, early detection of binocular disorders, and multidisciplinary care for children with developmental eye conditions, as well as assessment of adults with acquired binocular problems. The profession is distinct from optometry and ophthalmology but relies on multidisciplinary teamwork to optimize visual outcomes.