History Of Optometry

Optometric history is tied to the development of vision science (related areas of medicine, microbiology, neurology, physiology, psychology, etc), optics, optical aids, optical instruments, imaging techniques and other eye care professions.



The term optometrists was coined by Landolt in 1886, referring to the "fitting of glasses". Prior to this, there was a distinction between "dispensing" and "refracting" opticians in the 19th century. The latter were later called optometrists.


Apparently the first schools of optometry in the world were established in 1850-1900 (presumably in USA) and contact lenses were first used in 1940s.


Meanwhile, the first optometry school in Malaysia is established in National University of Malaysia (Universiti Kebangsaan Malaysia).


Nowadays, there are 4 schools of optometry in Malaysia including in the UKM. These optometry schools are UiTM Optometry School, UIA Optometry School and IUCTT Optometry School.

(Edited from Wikipedia)