Ophthalmologists, Except Pediatric
Diagnose and perform surgery to treat and help prevent disorders and diseases of the eye. May also provide vision services for treatment including glasses and contacts.
SOC: 29-1241.00
Common Job Titles
Glaucoma SpecialistOphthalmologistPhysicianRetina Specialist
What You'll Need to Succeed
AI-generatedKey competencies for this occupation at a glance
- KnowledgeEvaluate diagnostic imaging results, visual field tests, and ocular pathology using slit lamps, optical coherence tomography, and scanning laser ophthalmoscopes to diagnose eye diseases.Advanced
- Hands-onPerform microsurgical procedures on ocular structures using surgical microscopes, ophthalmic lasers, and precision instruments under sterile conditions.Advanced
- KnowledgeAnalyze comprehensive patient examination data including corneal topography, retinal scans, and intraocular pressure measurements to develop evidence-based treatment plans for complex ophthalmic conditions.Advanced
- KnowledgeSynthesize current ophthalmic research, emerging surgical techniques, and clinical guidelines to continuously update practice protocols and maintain board certification.Advanced
- KnowledgeInterpret complex clinical findings and test results to explain diagnoses, prognoses, and treatment rationales to patients and interdisciplinary healthcare teams.Advanced
- Hands-onExecute precisely laser refractive procedures and intraocular surgeries coordinating hand-eye movements with microscope visualization and specialized instrumentation.Advanced
- KnowledgeFormulate individualized treatment strategies for disorders including cataracts, glaucoma, and retinal diseases considering patient comorbidities, medication interactions, and evidence-based best practices.Advanced
- MindsetModel professional ethical standards and patient-centered care principles when training residents, supervising clinical staff, and collaborating with referring physicians.Advanced
- MindsetIntegrate patient concerns and preferences with clinical evidence and surgical risks when counseling patients on treatment options including surgery, medications, and corrective lenses.Proficient
- Hands-onOperate advanced diagnostic equipment including autorefractors, phoropters, and corneal topographers to obtain precise measurements for vision correction and surgical planning.Proficient
- MindsetAdvocate for patient safety and quality standards in surgical and clinical ophthalmology while managing practice operations and coordinating with healthcare staff.Proficient
- KnowledgeAssess pre-operative and post-operative patient status including complications and healing progress through systematic monitoring and documentation in electronic health record systems.Proficient
Wage Data According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics
Annual wage data for Ophthalmologists, Except Pediatric (2024)
Estimated Total Employment (U.S.)
12,110
Wage Distribution by Percentile
| Metric | U.S. |
|---|---|
| 10% of workers earn the following or less | $104,240 |
| 10% of workers earn the following or more | $239,200+ |
| Workers on average earn | $301,500 |
+ indicates wage is at or above the BLS reporting cap ($239,200/year)
Skills & Requirements
Key competencies for this occupation, ranked by importance
- Medicine and Dentistry4.5/5
- English Language4.4/5
- Customer and Personal Service4.1/5
- Biology3.8/5
- Administration and Management3.6/5
Tools & Technology
Equipment and software commonly used in this occupation
In-Demand Technology
Frequently requested by employers in job postings
Epic SystemsMicrosoft ExcelMicrosoft WordeClinicalWorks EHR software
Technology Skills
Allscripts PMAutomatic Data Processing AdvancedMD EHRBenchmark Systems Benchmark Clinical EHRBizmatics PrognoCIS EMRCareCloud CentralCerner PowerWorks Practice ManagementEmail softwareEpic Practice Management
Tools & Equipment
Automated external defibrillators AEDAutorefractorsBinocular indirect ophthalmoscopesConjunctival sac scissorsCorneal scissorsCorneal topographersDiagnostic exophthalmometersDiagnostic ophthalmoscope sets