Fred M. Ashbrook, OD

Optometrist

Dr. Fred M. Ashbrook is an Optometrist in Portsmouth, VA with special training and skill in examining eyes for both vision and health problems, and correcting refractive errors by prescribing eyeglasses and contact lenses, as well as providing low vision care and vision therapy. As an Optometrist, Fred M. Ashbrook, OD performs eye exams to detect any vision problems or diseases; requires testing visual acuity, depth, and color perception, as well as the ability to focus and coordinate the eyes. Optometry is the practice or profession of examining the eyes for visual defects and prescribing corrective lenses. Significant diseases and conditions treated by Optometrists include conjunctivitis, diabetic eye disease, glaucoma, and macular degeneration. Medical tests, procedures and therapies provided by Optometrists include visual acuity test, color blindness test, cover test, eye movement test, depth perception test, retinoscopy, refraction test, as well as autorefractor and abberrometer prescription estimate.

Doctors of optometry (ODs) are the primary health care professionals for the eye. Optometrists examine, diagnose, treat, and manage diseases, injuries, and disorders of the visual system, the eye, and associated structures as well as identify related systemic conditions affecting the eye. An optometrist has completed pre-professional undergraduate education in a college or university and four years of professional education at a college of optometry, leading to the doctor of optometry (O.D.) degree. Some optometrists complete an optional residency in a specific area of practice. Optometrists are eye health care professionals state-licensed to diagnose and treat diseases and disorders of the eye and visual system.