Keeping an eye on serious illnesses and common problems
Optometrist Rita Sum's job goes beyond prescribing glasses and contact lenses - she serves as the first line of defence against various illnesses.
Eye care professionals working in clinics carry out examinations for patients. Sum says: "Apart from diagnosing common problems such as short and long-sightedness and prescribing glasses, we detect diseases like diabetes and hypertension and refer patients to specialists. We are the primary eye care service provider."
Optometrists also provide eye training exercise to patients, especially children with problems such as lazy eyes and deviating eyes, Sum adds.
"I love my job because I am able to help people," she says.
Polytechnic University (PolyU) is the only institution in Hong Kong offering a bach