What is the difference between Optometrists, Ophthalmologists, and Opticians ?
The different types of eye care providers are known as the “three O’s” : optometrists, opticians, and ophthalmologists. Each has a different level of training and expertise, and each will provide different types of care. Keep in mind that these professionals work together and that a team approach can be the best option for complete eye care.
Optometrists provide primary health care for the eyes. After college, they spent 4 years in a professional program to obtain a doctor of optometry degree. Some optometrists get additional clinical training or complete a specialty fellowship after optometry school. The practice of optometry involves:
- conducting comprehensive eye examinations
- prescribing eyeglasses and contact lenses
- prescribing medication for certain eye conditions
- in some states, performing specialized surgical procedures
Opticians provide services to dispense the corrective lenses that are prescribed by the eye doctor for the patient to see as clearly as possible. They receive their degree after specialized training in a university or college and then are required to pass two tests to become board certified licensed opticians. Opticians also:
- Provide, adjust, and repair eyeglasses, frames, and contact lenses
- Help decide which type of lenses and frames will work best
- Take facial measurements for customization to the patient’s needs
- Instruct patients on contact lens care, insertion and removal
Ophthalmologists provide the same medical eye care as optometrists, but also provide surgical services as well. Ophthalmologists complete at least eight years of medical school and residency training and are licensed to practice both medicine and surgery. Many ophthalmologists routinely perform cataract and laser surgery. Some ophthalmologists may choose a subspecialty which requires continuing their education and training in a specific area of medical or surgical eye care. Some subspecialties of ophthalmology include cornea, retina, glaucoma, pediatric, neuro-ophthalmology and oculoplastic surgery.
The question will sometimes arise how to choose an eye doctor. The right choice depends on your individual needs. The best eye doctor for you should be:
- Recommended by your doctor, friends, or family
- Appropriate to your vision problems (If you need routine eyeglasses or contact lens care, you have many choices. If you have a specific eye condition, you may want to choose a doctor that is a subspecialist.)
- Someone you like and trust