What do optometrists do

Ophthalmologists differ from optometrists and opticians in their levels of training and in what they can diagnose and treat. As a medical doctor who has completed college and at least eight years of additional medical training, an ophthalmologist is licensed to practice medicine and surgery. An ophthalmologist diagnoses and treats all eye diseases, performs eye surgery and prescribes and fits eyeglasses and contact lenses to correct vision problems.

Many ophthalmologists are also involved in scientific research on the causes and cures for eye diseases and vision disorders. While ophthalmologists are trained to care for all eye problems and conditions, some Eye M. This person is called a subspecialist. He or she usually completes one or two years of additional, more in-depth training called a fellowship in one of the main subspecialty areas such as glaucoma, retina, cornea, pediatrics, neurology and plastic surgery, as well as others.

This added training and knowledge prepares an ophthalmologist take care of more complex or specific conditions in certain areas of the eye or in certain groups of patients. Optometrists are healthcare professionals who provide primary vision care ranging from sight testing and correction to the diagnosis, treatment, and management of vision changes.

An optometrist is not a medical doctor. An optometrist receives a doctor of optometry OD degree after completing four years of optometry school, preceded by three years or more years of college.

They are licensed to practice optometry, which primarily involves performing eye exams and vision tests, prescribing and dispensing corrective lenses, detecting certain eye abnormalities, and prescribing medications for certain eye diseases. Opticians are technicians trained to design, verify and fit eyeglass lenses and frames, contact lenses, and other devices to correct eyesight.

They use prescriptions supplied by ophthalmologists or optometrists, but do not test vision or write prescriptions for visual correction.

Counsel patients regarding surgical and non-surgical options that meet their visual needs related to their occupations, avocations and lifestyle. Complete pre-professional undergraduate education in a college or university and four years of professional education at a college of optometry, leading to the doctor of optometry O.

Many doctors of optometry complete an additional residency in a specific area of practice. Comprehensive eye exam What is a comprehensive eye exam? Why is it important to get comprehensive eye exams with a doctor of optometry? What is the difference between a comprehensive eye exam and a vision screening?

Find a Doctor of Optometry. Zip Code. Advanced Search. Share This. Login to gain access to member-only content. We will also discuss how to choose the best eye-care professional for your needs. An optometry program is a postgraduate program that takes roughly 4 years to complete, depending on the school and curriculum.

The program curriculum includes:. Optometry program coursework also includes full-time clinical training as a resident during the final 1 to 2 years of the program. You can visit an optometrist for your yearly eye exam, to refill an eyeglass or contact prescription, or even to receive medication and treatment for certain eye conditions. Unlike an ophthalmologist, an optometrist is not a surgical specialist and cannot treat more serious eye conditions. Optometrists can prescribe controlled medications for eye conditions.

Depending on the state legislation, some optometrists can also perform minor surgeries. These surgical procedures may include foreign body removal, laser eye surgery , and certain additional surgical interventions.

All ophthalmologists must complete a full medical program before they can begin a residency program in ophthalmology. An ophthalmology residency program takes an additional 4 to 7 years to complete, depending on the school and curriculum. The residency program expands on:. Ophthalmology residency training also includes the hands-on care of patients, which involves performing surgical procedures under supervision.

The residency program generally follows a one year internship. You can visit an ophthalmologist for the same care as an optometrist, such as a routine eye exam or prescription refill. However, an ophthalmologist can also perform eye surgery for various diseases and conditions, including cataracts, glaucoma , and strabismus surgery, plus more.

Description In Australia, optometrists are health professionals who have a university qualification and must be registered with the Optometry Board of Australia.

Services provided Optometrists are qualified to: Diagnose eye disorders and diseases such as cataracts and glaucoma. Pick up health disorders involving the eyes such as diabetes and thyroid problems.

Examine eyes for vision disorders. Prescribe, fit and supply glasses and contact lenses. Analyse and treat eye coordination and focusing disorders. Prescribe other specialised optical aids. Contribute to the care of people who experience vision loss. Eye examinations with an optometrist Optometrists can do a thorough check up of your eyes. The optometrist will also: Talk to you and develop your case history.