About Holistic Ophthalmologists

Ophthalmologists are doctors who specialize in the diagnosis, treatment and prevention of eye conditions and injuries.  Holistic ophthalmologists are eye doctors who prefer to take a more natural approach to treating conditions within the eye, as well as its surrounding structures.

Education

The path to becoming a holistic ophthalmologist is the same as it is to become any other physician.  Someone who wishes to become a holistic ophthalmologist must begin by obtaining a four-year degree from an accredited college or university.  They must take and pass the Medical College Admissions Test, or MCAT, and attend four years of medical school.  The next step in becoming a holistic ophthalmologist is three to four years in a residency program for ophthalmology.  In order to become licensed to practice, holistic ophthalmologists must take the United States Medical Licensing Examination, or USMLE.

Job Description

Holistic ophthalmologists perform examinations on the eye and it's surrounding structures, such as the eyelids, cornea, conjuctiva, retina and sclera.  They work to diagnose any problems within the eye, and develop a treatment plan for the patient.  Holistic ophthalmologists try to focus on natural treatment methods such as dietary supplements, herbs and vitamins, rather than the conventional methods of treatment.  Some holistic ophthalmologists will prescribe treatments such as acupuncture to treat eye conditions.

Employment

Holistic ophthalmologists may choose to work in a variety of settings.  Many will choose to work in a private practice, physician's office or hospital.  Others may choose to work in an educational setting as a professor or researcher.