Rocky Mountain University of Health Profession’s (RMU) commitment to addressing the evolving needs of the healthcare industry is evident in its recent launch of the Doctor of Optometry (OD) program. With the aging American population presenting a growing demand for optometrists specialized in common age-related eye conditions like cataracts, macular degeneration, myopia, and more, RMU has proactively responded to this pressing need. The U.S. Bureau of Labor and Statistics projects a 10 percent growth in optometrist employment over the next decade, surpassing the average for all occupations.
“There is a growing shortage of optometrists across the country. Our Doctor of Optometry program will help to reverse that trend,” said Adam Hickenbotham, OD, MPH, PhD, Founding Dean of the College of Optometry. “We were excited to start this May with an inaugural class of 59 students.”
Located in Provo, Utah, RMU’s College of Optometry has attracted students from all corners of the nation who are seeking advanced medical education and training in the optometric field.
Toni Brown was the first student accepted and enrolled in the OD program. “I felt like part of the family [as soon as] they accepted me,” said Brown. She already had deposits down at three different universities, but once accepted to RMU, she jumped at the opportunity. “[RMU] has a great community feel,” said Brown. “Everyone cares about your success. It’s been a great experience.”
OD student Milliona Yohannes chose RMU for two reasons- the first was one was how accessible the faculty is. “They’re attentive to their students, have open door policies, and are creative with their interactions with students.” The other reason Milliona chose RMU is its location. “There aren’t a lot of Optometry schools in the country and Utah opening a location has made it more accessible to students.”
A Holistic Approach to Eye Care
Today’s medical student demands a program focusing on a patient-centered healthcare approach.
“I chose [RMU] over other universities because of the medical focus and the new curriculum,” said OD student Jared Foster. “With the population increasing, we’re going to need more specialized optometrists who understand the entire body as a whole rather than just eyes and lenses.”
“They teach us in our classes that we’re not just eye care providers,” says Brown. “We’re friends and advocates and can build great personal relationships with our patients.”
Impacting The Future of Optometry
The first cohort intends to go out and make an impact. “The impact that I want to leave [as an Optometrist] is being a representative for my community, being a voice, and being seen,” said Yohannes. “This should encourage people to go into disciplines and specialties that they may not have been aware of.”
Students still have another four years before they will complete the program, during which RMU’s Doctor of Optometry program will prepare them to become competent and compassionate optometrists who will shape the future of eye care. Upon graduation, RMU’s program will prepare the students for advancement through residency training or placements in private practice, multidisciplinary clinics, hospitals, and clinical research studies.
