When you go to “get your eyes checked,” there are a variety of eye care providers you might see. Ophthalmologists, optometrists and opticians all play an important role in providing eye care services to consumers. However, each group has different levels of training and expertise; you should be sure you are seeing the right provider for your condition or treatment.
What is an ophthalmologist?
An ophthalmologist – Eye M.D. – is a medical or osteopathic doctor who specializes in eye and vision care. Ophthalmologists are specially trained to provide the full spectrum of eye care, from prescribing glasses and contact lenses to complex and delicate eye surgery. Many ophthalmologists are also involved in scientific research into the causes and cures for eye diseases and vision problems.
How is an ophthalmologist different from an optometrist and an optician?
Ophthalmologists are different from optometrists and opticians in their training and in what they can diagnose and treat. As a medical doctor, 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. Ophthalmologists complete:
• four years of college;
• four years of medical school;
• one year of internship;
• three years, at least, of residency (hospital-based training) in the diagnosis and medical and surgical treatment of eye disorders.
An optometrist receives a Doctor of Optometry (OD) degree and is licensed to practice optometry, not medicine. The practice of optometry traditionally involves examining the eye for the purpose of prescribing and dispensing corrective lenses, screening vision to detect certain eye abnormalities, and prescribing medications for certain eye diseases.
An optician is 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 corrections. Opticians are not permitted to diagnose or treat eye diseases.
How does an ophthalmologist become certified?
After four years of college and eight additional years of medical education and training, a certified ophthalmologist must pass a rigorous two-part examination given by the American Board of Ophthalmology.
http://www.eyecareamerica.org/eyecare/tmp/what-is-an-ophthalmologist.cfm