Eye Care Professionals

There are three main types of eye care professionals:

• ophthalmologists
• optometrists
• opticians.

Seeing the right eye care provider can help you get the treatment or services you need. Sometimes, your primary care doctor may treat an eye problem or refer you to one of these eye care providers.

What is an ophthalmologist?

An ophthalmologist is a medical doctor who is licensed as a physician and surgeon. This type of doctor is skilled in all aspects of eye and vision care. Ophthalmologists can diagnose, treat, and prevent eye problems. They can also diagnose and treat general diseases of the body that affect the eyes. They prescribe medicines, glasses, and contact lenses and perform eye surgery and laser procedures when needed.

An ophthalmologist's education includes 4 years of college, 4 years of medical school, 1 year of hospital internship, and 3 years of residency. During their residency, they gain experience in treating eye problems under the supervision of senior medical doctors. Some ophthalmologists may specialize in diagnosing and treating problems with certain parts of the eye (such as the cornea or retina). These specialists have an additional 1 to 2 years of training.

What is an optometrist?

Optometrists are primary healthcare providers who are trained to examine, diagnose, treat and manage diseases and disorders of the eye and visual system. An optometrist tests vision and prescribes treatments such as glasses, contacts, or eye exercises. An optometrist will refer people needing surgery or other specialized eye care to an ophthalmologist.

An optometrist's education consists of 4 years of college and 4 years in optometric college.

What is an optician?

An optician prepares, fits, adjusts, and repairs glasses, contact lenses, and other optical aids. Opticians use written prescriptions from an ophthalmologist or an optometrist. Opticians can help you select attractive glasses that will also suit your needs.

Education requirements for opticians vary by states. Generally, opticians must have a high school diploma, some college-level classes, and special training that qualifies them for an optician's license.