Do I Need an Optometrist, Ophthalmologist, or Optician?
Are you wondering who you should see for your eye exam? Here are the differences between Optometrists, Ophthalmologists, and Opticians.
Optometrist (OD)
are eye doctors who have undergone, at a minimum, a four-year doctorate program in optometry. They train to:
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- Perform comprehensive eye exams
- Prescribe corrective lenses
- Provide pre-and post-operative care for patients who have had eye surgery
- Diagnose and treat eye problems, infections, and diseases
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Some optometrists also provide eye care services like low-vision services and vision therapy.
Ophthalmologist
Ophthalmologists are medical doctors (MDs) or sometimes osteopathic doctors (ODs) who have had four years of medical school, a year-long internship, and a minimum of three years of hospital residency in diagnosing and treating eye disorders. Their specialty involves:
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- Performing eye exams
- Prescribing corrective lenses
- Performing eye surgery
- Diagnosing and treating eye problems
- Prescribing medication
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Opticians
Opticians, meanwhile, are not doctors. They fit and sell glasses based on the optometrist or ophthalmologist’s prescription. Some opticians can also be certified for contact lens fitting.
How Do I Learn More About Eye Doctors Near Me?
When you click Location Details under the locations near you, you’ll be able to see the names and profiles of the doctors who practice at that location. You can also go to the Our Doctors tab and see our entire staff of eye care experts. You can search by name or specialty, and by clicking View Doctor Bio, you can see the locations where each doctor has a practice.
Trying to find an eye care professional you trust?
Do your research before selecting an eye-care specialist nearby. Qualify your eye specialist before hiring them to care for and protect your vision. The best long-term eye care practice has many locations, experienced, multi-specialty ophthalmologists, and optometrists for the expertise you need and the patient care you want