Differences between an Ophthalmologist, an Optometrist, and an Optician

Our eyes are not only integral to how we view the world but the portal through which we are able to connect with our surroundings. Healthy eyesight is therefore critical to our overall quality of life. We are all acquainted with the importance of eating a healthy diet and staying active to maintain optimal eye health, but did you know that regular eye and vision exams are also vital?

If you search for an eye care provider, however, it might be confusing to see there are three different types: optician, optometrist, and ophthalmologist. While all three are eye care professionals, the key differences in their training and expertise dictate the different level of care they provide. Here is a look at how they are different.

What is an Optician

Opticians do not deal specifically with your eyes; however, they are an important part of your eye care team. An optician is trained to interpret prescriptions issued by optometrists and ophthalmologists to design, fit, and dispense visual aids like eyeglass lenses and frames, contact lenses, and other specialized optical appliances. They are essentially eyewear experts who help you find the best match to fit your visual and aesthetic needs.

Although opticians are licensed eye care professionals, they are not qualified to provide eye health evaluations. Unlike optometrists, they are not permitted to perform eye exams and diagnose or treat eye conditions.

What is an Optometrist

It’sOptometrists are health care specialists trained to provide you with primary eye and vision care. They offer extensive services that range from conducting eye exams and evaluating vision to diagnosing, treating, and managing vision changes. In the event a disease or a disorder of the eye is detected, an optometrist can help you navigate the next step in diagnosis and treatment which frequently includes a referral to an ophthalmologist.

While optometrists can handle nearly all medical aspects of ophthalmology, unlike ophthalmologists, they are not trained or qualified to perform eye surgery. They can, however, manage preoperative and postoperative care related to the surgery. Learn more about how The human eye works.

What is an Ophthalmologist

An ophthalmologist is a medical or osteopathic doctor, trained to specialize in the comprehensive medical and surgical care of the eyes and vison. While the care they provide crosses over the full spectrum of services offered by optometrists, as qualified specialists, ophthalmologists can also perform surgery to treat various eye diseases and conditions. Additionally, they can treat visual complications that result from medical conditions like diabetes.

An ophthalmologist is trained to care for all eye problems and conditions; however, some specialize in a specific disease or a specific area of the eye. This equips them to treat more complex or specific conditions related to their sub-specialty.

From a credentialing perspective, opticians typically undergo technical instruction through formal on-the job programs or get a formal education in opticianry that can be a year or two. An optometrist receives a Doctor of Optometry (OD) upon the completion of a four-year professional program in optometry preceded by an undergraduate degree. An ophthalmologist (MD) undergoes four years of medical school and a minimum of four years of residency following four years of pre-medical undergraduate education.

If it’s been more than a few years since your last visit, or if you’ve never seen one, it is time to schedule your visit with the appropriate eye care provider now.

Visit an optometrist for routine eye care, unsure of the condition of your eye health and require an eye exam, or need to update your prescription. See an ophthalmologist for medical and surgical treatment of serious eye conditions. Go to an optician if you need eyewear prescription filled or adjusted.