The Optometrist has the degree Doctor of Optometry (O.D.) and is a primary vision care specialist. He/she has completed four years of college and a four year doctorate program. The course of study includes basic medical anatomy and pharmacology and specific courses relating to the diagnosis and treatment of disorders of the eyes and vision system. Since at least the 1970¹s, the education of optometrists has included the diagnosis and treatment of eye health problems. An optometrist can examine your eyes and related structures for health and vision disorders and treats vision problems with spectacle and contact lenses and exercises. In many locales, optometrists dispense eyeglasses and contact lenses. In most of the United States, (as of 4/1/95 all but nine states) Doctors of Optometry also may treat certain eye diseases. The scope of their practice (the type of eye diseases they may medically treat) varies from state to state. Optometrists may practice as individuals in private or group practices and may be associated with medical clinics or PPOs (preferred provider groups).
The Ophthalmologist has the degree Doctor of Ophthalmology (M.D.) and is a primary and secondary, medical/surgical eye care provider. He/she has completed four years of college, four years of medical school and at least two years, (often more), of residency and internships relating to the diagnosis and treatment, including surgery, of diseases of the eye. Some ophthalmologists specialize in treating very specific eye problems. These include the treatment of retina and corneal diseases. Ophthalmologists may also perform intricate surgical procedures including cataracts removal and crystalline lens transplants and various repairs and therapies utilizing lasers. In some locales, they also provide vision examinations and may dispense contact lenses and eyeglasses. Ophthalmologists may practice as individuals in private or group practices and may be associated with medical clinics or PPOs (preferred provider groups).
The services you may receive from an ophthalmologist or optometrist may be nearly identical or considerably different and limited in scope. This would depend on where the practice is located and what specialties the doctor chooses to provide. As the United States moves toward managed care systems, (and perhaps in the future universal, accessible national health care) the optometrist¹s role seems to be moving toward one as primary care provider. Ophthalmologists, then, become specialists who deal with more involved medical and surgical treatments. There are eye doctors in both fields who take exception to these alterations and delineations of their roles in the health care system. For now, you would have to inquire as to the level of eye care provided by these practitioners.
The optician is a person who has trained in the skills necessary to grind and shape glass and plastic materials to the optical powers as prescribed by an O.D. or M.D. Education consists of trade school and apprentiships. An optician many hold various certifications and licenses, which vary by state and country of practice. An optician is also the person who operates a facility which dispenses eyeglasses and other accessories. In some states and countries, they may also dispense contact lenses as prescribed by a doctor. In the United States and most elsewhere, they can not examine the eyes.