Definition Education and Training Scope of Practice & Services About Optometry Optometry is comprehensive, professional eye care performed by an optometric physician, or optometrist. The optometric physician is the "family eye doctor," as more than 70 percent of primary eye examinations are conducted by optometric physicians, who work closely with surgical and non-surgical sub-specialists to deliver complete eye care to patients of all ages. In fact, in 4,300 communities nationwide, optometric physicians are the only primary eye and vision care providers. Definition Optometric physicians are independent primary health care providers who examine, diagnose, treat and manage diseases and disorders of the visual system, the eye and associated structures as well as diagnose related systemic conditions.