What is an Orthoptist?
Orthoptists are allied health professionals recognized by the American Medical Association and work alongside ophthalmologists, primarily in pediatric or neuro-ophthalmology. Orthoptists function similarly to a physician’s assistant or nurse practitioner but must receive highly specialized training focused on assessing eye movement and binocular vision disorders in children and adults.
Orthoptists work with patients of all ages. Patients may be referred to an orthoptist for a sensorimotor evaluation which includes assessment of amblyopia, strabismus, double vision, nystagmus and other complex disorders related to binocular function. Orthoptists may also evaluate patients before and after strabismus surgery or at the time of their appointment with the ophthalmologist. Your orthoptist may suggest a variety of non-surgical treatment options including occlusion, prism, glasses, exercises or pharmacological intervention.
It is the goal of orthoptists to improve the quality of life of all patients by raising awareness of binocular vision disorders and promoting a positive working relationship between patients, parents, and ophthalmologists. Together, orthoptists and ophthalmologists strive to limit childhood blindness and restore the standard of living for adults suffering from debilitating double vision and eye misalignment.
Our Orthoptist – Bevin Bithell, C.O.
Ms. Bithell, our orthoptist, is a key member of the treatment team here at Children’s Eye Care. She has worked with Dr. Lipsky since 2014 and is integral to our team approach to caring for patients with lazy eye and eye misalignment. She was awarded the Richard Scobee Memorial Award in 2020, recognizing her as the best and brightest in her field. We are so honored to have her here at Children’s Eye Care.
She completed her training in Orthoptics at the University of Michigan Kellogg Eye Center. She is a proud graduate of the University of Georgia where she received a degree in Biology and Psychology. Ms. Bithell combines her years of clinical experience and top-notch training with unparalleled attention to detail and compassion for her patients. She is committed to working with patients and families to provide individualized treatment plans for a lifetime of better vision.
She is a devoted fan of UGA Football and enjoys children’s theater, dance and trying new restaurants. Go Dawgs and Go Blue!
