Preparing Future Optometrists to Practice in Global Society

April 8, 2025

Howard Purcell, OD, FAAO

The future is bright for optometry students. Several demographic trends are driving a greater need for eye care, including an aging U.S. population, a global myopia epidemic, and increased rates of eye conditions, such as diabetic eye disease and glaucoma. It is anticipated that the current supply of ophthalmologists is inadequate to meet the future demands for ophthalmic care,¹ especially in rural areas. This is increasing the recognition of optometrists for their comprehensive training and capabilities in medical eye care and surgical co-management. It’s not surprising to me that our students at the New England College of Optometry (NECO) have an average of four to five job opportunities when they graduate.

However, beyond clinical expertise, it’s critical we prepare students for the important cultural considerations that are necessary in this profession that changes people’s lives every day.

First, we should expose all our students to a wide range of experiences across a varied patient population. NECO’s clinical program is unique in that every student provides care, under supervision, at a community health center, and this often is one of the most impactful parts of their clinical experience.    

Secondly, we should try to weave cultural awareness into all aspects of our optometric training, so that when they begin practicing, our students are prepared to offer a culturally sensitive and welcoming environment that serves a diverse population. For example, some students may need to learn, as I did when I began practicing, that inviting the family members of Latino patients into the exam room can have a positive impact on health outcomes. In addition, students need to be aware of the types of barriers to care their patients might experience, such as using recommended sun wear or assistance in administering eyedrops.

It's also important that we make sure we are recruiting a broad pool of applicants and graduating students from diverse backgrounds. In a recent survey conducted by Jobson on behalf of Latinos en Optometry and Transitions Optical, 55% of respondents agreed that there will be an increased need for optometrists with diverse backgrounds in the future.² For many patients, being able to find a doctor who looks like them helps build trust in the doctor-patient relationship – and that trust contributes to adherence to treatments, positive health outcomes and more.    

The good news is, I have noticed how this current generation of optometry students has a high level of concern about health literacy and access to care. In my experience, they have an expectation to be a partner with other providers in guidance and treatment decisions. Because of this mindset, I think students will lead with an empathetic and collaborative approach to care with their future patients. This generation is also technologically savvy and are excited to use the latest innovations, such as artificial intelligence, telehealth, and virtual reality to help advance the profession.

With all this in mind, I think it’s important we adapt and reaffirm our commitment to fostering a professional environment that focuses on inclusion for all stakeholders, including optometry students and patients.

For more information:

References:

1. Berkowitz ST, Finn AP, Parikh R, et al. Ophthalmology workforce projections in the United States, 2020 to 2035. Ophthalmology 2024;131(2):133-139.
2. Latinos en Optometry. “Career considerations in optometry” survey. Accessed 2/20/25 at https://latinosenoptometry.org/students/career-considerations-in-optometry/

Howard Purcell, OD, FAAO, is President and CEO of New England College of Optometry (NECO) in Boston, MA and co-founder/Board member of Latinos en Optometry. Prior to NECO, he worked in clinical practice and in corporate roles for Essilor of America and Johnson & Johnson Vision.

Disclaimer: The views and opinions expressed in this blog are solely those of the author and may not necessarily represent the official policy or position of Latinos en Optometry or VSP Vision, unless otherwise specified. It is important to note that the content in this blog is intended for informational purposes only and should not be considered a replacement for medical or other professional advice. Additionally, mentioning any particular commercial product, process, or service in this blog does not imply endorsement, recommendation, or favoritism by Latinos en Optometry. Latinos en Optometry is dedicated to ensuring that the information on its website is accurate, timely, and useful. If you would like to learn more, please refer to our Terms of Use for additional information.