Often times when people are faced with an eye-related medical issue, they are unsure of how to go about handling the situation. After all, vision is extremely important in every aspect of life, whether it’s work, socializing, or just day to day general activity.
Visiting a health professional is crucial when dealing with an ocular injury. Seeing the proper personnel can quicken recovery as well as prevent a small problem from turning into a serious one. So what’s the difference between an ophthalmologist, an optometrist, and an optician? With eye care and services ranging from patient to patient, understanding the differences of what a health care professional can and cannot do can save customers a lot of time, money, and stress.
Optometrist
Many issues of the eye as well as services for vision correction can be well taken care of by an optometrist! These healthcare professionals are trained with a four year premedical undergraduate degree, followed by four more years of optometry school. Though most optometrists receive a doctorate degree in optometry (OD), some continue for a one year residency program for a specialty. Almost all eye-related medical issues can be properly assessed by an optometrist, for there is overlap in their medical practice compared to an ophthalmologist and will further patients on to a specialist if needed. Comprehensive training gives optometrists the ability to properly diagnose several e
ye conditions and diseases as well as basic corrective vision services such as eye examinations. The scope of practice in optometry has significantly widened in the medical field over recent years. It is recommended to visit an optometrist prior to seeing a specialist or surgeon for advice on what to do next.
Optician
Optometrists will often prescribe a patient with specific lenses for either normalized or corrective vision. These prescriptions are then sent to opticians who then fit and customize the proper lens and set of glasses with the patient. Opticians take into account bone and facial structure, and style in order to fully suit the patient.
Ophthalmologist
Day to day vision care is important to maintaining ocular health, but when issues involving eyes and vision become serious or require surgery, it might be better to try using a specialist. An ophthalmologist has a medical degree (MD) for eye specialty. They have completed 12 or more years of education, four of which specializes in ophthalmology residency. These doctors are trained in ocular surgery as well as extensive diagnosis of any medical problems concerning the eye. ophthalmologists treat and manage complex eye issues or diseases that exceeds beyond an optometrist.
Visit the West Coast Optical website today to learn about whether you require the services of an optometrist, optician, or ophthalmologist.
