What’s the Difference Between an Ophthalmologist and an Optometrist
If it’s been a long time since you’ve had your vision checked, you might be surprised to find out that you have several options when it comes to selecting your provider. Rather than heading over to the local optical shop and making an appointment with whoever happens to be working that day, individuals can now take a more active approach in their own eye care. Both optometrists and ophthalmologists are available for a range of services, but what exactly do each of them do?
Receiving Primary Eye Care
Those who are looking for a basic eye exam to check the health of their eyes or simply need their contact lens prescription refilled will likely need to visit an optometrist for their annual exam. An optometrist can manage a patient’s overall eye health and has received extensive training on how to treat many visual issues.
Optometrists attend a four-year program after finishing their undergraduate education and receive a doctor of optometry degree. They’re trained to assess a patient’s visual needs, determine prescriptions to correct nearsightedness, farsightedness, and astigmatism, and can also uncover disorders and diseases that require one-time or ongoing care. Optometrists fit patients with contact lenses and, in many cases, also work with patients who need vision therapy.
Most eye care offices have an optometrist on staff and can help people of all ages to maintain great vision for a lifetime. However, if you have more advanced needs, then an ophthalmologist may be a more appropriate option.
Addressing Complex Concerns
Sometimes individuals require more than a routine health check to keep their eyesight strong, and in these instances, visiting an ophthalmologist is recommended. Not only can they assist with prescribing glasses or contacts and examining the health of the eye, but their skills extend beyond those that an optometrist can provide.
Ophthalmologists attend medical school and complete internships and residencies before they begin to treat patients in private practice. These professionals are trained to complete eye surgery, including cataract surgery, and can offer ongoing treatment of complex diseases like glaucoma, macular degeneration, and more. Many ophthalmologists also offer plastic surgery services to help with drooping eyelids that obstruct one’s vision.
Typically, older individuals seek regular care from an ophthalmologist but people of all ages can visit these providers for routine eye care as well. Larger eye clinics tend to have both types of providers on staff so that they can treat patients with a wide range of visual needs.
Whether you decide to visit an optometrist for your annual eye exam or you find that you’re in need of more advanced treatment from an ophthalmologist, it’s important to remember that your eyes need regular care just like any other part of your body. Those who don’t need vision correction often assume that they can go without an eye exam, but many times, your eyes are the first place where specific diseases may show up.
If you’re due for an eye exam or need to see a provider to address a more complex eye condition, contact Associated Eyecare today and schedule an appointment with one of our optometrists or ophthalmologists.
