Choosing an Eye Care Professional

• Optometrist
• Ophthalmologist
• Optician

Whom do you call for an appointment - an optometrist, ophthalmologist, or an optician? For instance, whom do you contact if you want to have an eye examination? What if you have an eye disease that requires surgery? Who makes the proper glasses or contact lenses according to the prescription written for you?

An optometrist, or doctor of optometry (O.D.), has completed four years of post- graduate optometry school and is trained as a primary eye care provider. The optometrist is licensed to examine eyes, diagnose eye diseases such as glaucoma and cataracts, and prescribe medications to treat eye disorders. This doctor can also diagnose other health problems, such as hypertension and diabetes, because symptoms of those diseases first appear in the eyes. Optometrists test the eyes for nearsightedness, farsightedness, and astigmatism, as well as depth perception and ability to focus and distinguish colors properly. They prescribe eyeglasses, contact lenses, and vision therapy. Optometrists may participate in pre- and post-operative care following eye surgery, although they do not perform the surgery itself.

An ophthalmologist is a medical doctor (M.D.) or doctor of osteopathy (D.O.) who specializes in medical and surgical care of the eye. Ophthalmologists complete at least four years of college premedical education, four or more years of medical school, one year of internship, and three or more years of specialized medical and surgical training. These specialists are qualified to diagnose and treat all eye conditions and are licensed by a state regulatory board to practice medicine and surgery. They can deliver total eye care, conducting eye examinations, prescribing eyeglasses or contact lenses, making a diagnosis of eye and systemic diseases, providing treatment, and performing surgery on eyes.

Opticians, although not doctors, must be licensed in some states. Opticians make eyeglasses, contact lenses, and sunglasses according to the prescription of an optometrist or ophthalmologist. The optician analyzes and interprets the prescription and determines the lens best suited to the wearer's needs. Many opticians grind lenses and set them in frames on their premises, so the lenses don't have to be ordered from a lab. That way, the customer can get them quickly, sometimes within an hour. In some states, opticians can also become certified, after special training, to fit contact lenses.