Ophthalmologists, Optometrists, and Opticians
What’s the Difference? Which One Do You Need?
When you’re having challenges with your vision, it can be confusing deciding which type of professional you need to see. What’s the difference between an ophthalmologist, an optometrist, and an optician? Which is the right one for your problem?
What Is an Ophthalmologist?
An ophthalmologist is a medical professional (M.D. or D.O.) who can treat virtually any type of eye condition. An ophthalmologist has the same education and training as other medical doctors or osteopaths, which generally includes a bachelor’s degree, four years of medical school, and a three-year ophthalmology residency. There is also typically a one-year internship between medical school and the residency program. After their residency, an ophthalmologist may also complete a fellowship in a special field of study, such as the retina or cornea.
The duties of an ophthalmologist include:
- General vision services, including eye exams
- Diagnosis and treatment of common eye conditions, such as cataracts, macular degeneration, glaucoma, and astigmatism
- Treatment of eye injury or trauma (including with prescription medication)
- Some surgical procedures, such as LASIK or natural lens replacement (cataracts)
What Is an Optometrist?
An optometrist generally provides non-surgical medical care of eye injury and illness. An optometrist has a bachelor’s degree and receives four years of specialized training at an optometry school, rather than a medical school. An optometry school graduate holds the title Doctor of Optometry (O.D.), but is not technically a medical doctor and does not perform surgery.
The duties of an optometrist include:
- Basic eye care, including exams, vision tests, and some therapy
- Prescription of corrective lenses, as well as fitting of glasses or contacts
- Diagnosis and treatment of some eye conditions, including cataracts, dry eye, glaucoma, and styes (including with prescription medication)
- Monitoring of eye conditions related to diseases like diabetes
What Is an Optician?
An optician specializes in corrective lenses, including glasses, sunglasses, and frames. The requirements to practice as an optician vary from state to state. Many states require a license, but some do not. Specialized training is available but may not be required.
The duties of an optician customarily include:
- Fitting, adjusting, and repairing eyeglasses
- Helping customers select eyewear
- Ensuring accuracy of prescription lenses
Which Eye Specialist Do You Need?
To select the right eye specialist for you, consider the level of care that you need. As a general rule, for most primary eyecare, you’ll get all the services you need from an optometrist. If you have specific conditions that need to be treated with surgery, such as cataracts, you’ll want to work with an ophthalmologist. If you’re only looking to buy or get fitted with a new pair of glasses, see an optician.
Contact InjuredCare to Connect with an Experienced Eye Professional
To get connected with the right professional to address any affliction with your eyes, contact us online or call our offices today at 866-952-7045.
