The International Orthoptic Association represents over 20,000 orthoptists, in over 20 countries.
The International Orthoptic Association was formed in 1967 after the first International Orthoptic Congress. The British Orthoptic Association were the founding members.
Orthoptists are required to be licensed by their respective countries. Many countries also require them to undertake continuing professional education
Orthoptists are part of the eye care professional team. They primarily work alongside ophthalmologists, in the co-management of strabismus and binocular vision disorders, such as amblyopia.
Orthoptists are involved in international research, whilst some are employed (particular in the USA and Canada) to teach training ophthalmology residents the practice of standard orthoptic care, vision therapy and ocular sonographer practice.