Orthoptic Training Program

Department of Ophthalmology and Visual Sciences
The University of Iowa Hospitals and Clinics
Iowa City, IA

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What is Orthoptics?

• Orthoptics is from the Greek Ortho-straight and optikos-of or for vision
• Orthoptics is an allied health profession pertaining to the study of eye movements.
• Utilizing specialized examination techniques, the orthoptist
  • Evaluates vision
  • Obtains measurements of eye position
  • Assesses double vision and/or visual discomfort
  • Participates in patient education and treatment
  • Participates in clinical research, teaching, and scientific publication
• Orthoptists examine infants, children and adults.

An orthoptist is an eye muscle specialist who works under the supervision of an ophthalmologist. The orthoptist is responsible for the evaluation of vision and ocular alignment using specialized examination techniques. The orthoptist actively participates in the diagnosis and non-surgical treatment of patients with decreased vision and crossed eyes.

The Orthoptic Training Program at the University of Iowa Hospitals and Clinics is located in the newly built Pomerantz Family Pavilion. The majority of the patients are examined in the Pediatric Ophthalmology and Adult Strabismus Service. Teaching is carried out by staff ophthalmologist, Richard J. Olson, MD, emeritus professor, W.E. Scott, MD, and two staff orthoptists, Pamela J. Kutschke, CO and Wanda L. Pfeifer, OC(C), COMT as well as many other department faculty.

The Orthoptic Training Program at the University of Iowa is the longest running program in the nation. The program and students have received the Scobee National Award for highest achievement several times.

Students interested in a career in orthoptics must have completed a baccalaureate degree in an accredited college or university. An undergraduate major in science is preferred including exposure to the following areas of study: biology, physical science, anatomy, mathematics, physiology, child development, psychology.

Orthoptics at the University of Iowa is offered as a zero credit hour course: as such, there is no tuition fee. Students are required to register at the beginning of each semester and a registration fee is charged. This allows the student University privileges which include use of the library and other resource facilities, financial aid, health insurance and student discounts.

A 24 month training period combines theoretical orthoptics and clinical experience. Students work under the direct supervision of a certified orthoptist and an ophthalmologist. The student is provided with a basic foundation upon which he or she may build to the fullest extent of his or her capability and willingness.

Initially, an introduction to the structures and functions of the eye and to the anatomical substrates of eye movements is given. Specific subject matter includes: anatomy and physiology of the eye, neuroanatomy pertinent to eye movements, physiologic optics, basic ocular pharmacology, diagnostic tests, differential diagnosis, and an introduction to the principles of general ophthalmology. Patient examination begins with supervised preliminary testing and expands as the student gains the necessary level of ability and proficiency.

Each student shall be required to complete at least one research project under the supervision of a staff orthoptist during his/her training period. This project will be presented at the ophthalmology departmental research day as well as at the Midwest Regional Orthoptic meeting (funding permitting).

After completion of 24 months of orthoptic training, upon recommendation of the director of training, a student is eligible to sit for the national board examinations offered by the American Orthoptic Council. The written board examination is given locally in June. The oral/practical board examination is given to all eligible candidates in September or October at one central location in the US. A fee is charged for these examinations. A certificate of orthoptics is awarded to candidates who demonstrate proficiency on both written and oral/practical sections of the examination.

Placement of certified orthoptists is 100% throughout the United States. Employment opportunities exceed the number of available orthoptists each year. After certification, an orthoptist is able to choose from a number of different career opportunities. In teaching hospitals, the orthoptist may be involved with residents and orthoptic student training, patient examination, and clinic administration. In private practice with an ophthalmologist, the orthoptist may enjoy a variety of diverse responsibilities such as patient examination, surgical assisting, providing patients and their families with a basic understanding of pediatric ophthalmologic disorders, participating in local vision screening programs and acting as an office manager or clinic coordinator. Many orthoptists are involved in clinical research, the results of which may be published in professional journals or presented at regional or national meetings. Part-time positions and placement abroad are among career alternatives.

Applications for the orthoptic training program can be obtained by contacting Pamela J. Kutschke CO, Director of the Orthoptic Training Program. Deadline for applications is March 15th. A committee will review all completed applications; letters will be sent to all applicants indicating whether or not they have been accepted to interview.

Interviews are conducted in late March and early April. All applicants will be notified whether or not they have been accepted to the program. Accepted applicants will begin training the first week of August. The Orthoptic Training Program at the University of Iowa Hospitals and Clinics has positions for four orthoptic students.