Optometrist, ophthalmologist, optician...whats the differenc
Many people are confused as to the difference between an optometrist, an optician, and an ophthalmologist. These are actually three different professions and all three are crucial to your care.
An optometrist is the primary care practitioner for your eyes. No matter what your concerns are, whether your vision is blurry, your eyes are infected, or you just want a routine check up, your optometrist should always be the first doctor you see. Once your optometrist makes a diagnosis for you, he/she will provide further directions. For example, if you have an eye infection, your optometrist will give you a prescription to bring to your pharmacist. If your blurriness is related to refraction, your optometrist will give you a spectacle prescription, which you can bring to your optician. If your vision problems requires tertiary care or require surgery (ie. if you have cataracts or a brain tumor), your optometrist will refer you to the appropriate specialist (ie. a neurologist, an ophthalmologist, etc.) That is the definition of primary care. Your optometrist should be the first point of contact in all visual and ocular related inquiries.
An ophthalmologist provides tertiary eye care and performs invasive surgeries to the eyes. In order to see an ophthalmologist, a referral from your optometrist is required.
An optician makes glasses for you according to the spectacle prescription written by your optometrist. Your optician ensures that the glasses are made with the correct power, aligns them optimally, and tries to give you the most comfortable fit.
Collaboratively, all three Os bring a complete package of what your eyes need in terms of healthcare. All three Os play a vital role in promoting clarity, health, and comfort for your eyes.
