There are 2 medical specialists who focus on helping to maintain and improve your sight: optometrists and ophthalmologists. Both provide important services and each can help with eyesight issues. But how do you know which specialist you need? Learn about the differences between optometrists and ophthalmologists.
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An optometrist addresses primary eye health, performing eye exams and vision tests, detecting vision problems, and prescribing corrective treatments such as glasses, contact lenses and medications. Optometrists complete 4 years of professional training after college to earn a doctor of optometry (OD) degree. They may also complete additional training or specialty fellowships after getting their degree and are required to participate in continuing education every year.1
Ophthalmology treats medical and surgical issues with the eyes. Ophthalmologists complete training in medical school, followed by a 1-year internship and 3-year residency.1 They are also required to participate in continuing education every year.
Think of your optometrist as the primary care doctor for your eyes. Your ophthalmologist is more of a specialist who can treat complex medical issues related to your eyes. Ophthalmologists can also perform corrective procedures or surgeries.
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While the services provided by each specialist can vary from state to state, here is a side-by-side comparison of the common differences between the 2:
Choose an optometrist for:
Choose an ophthalmologist for:
Optometrists and ophthalmologists often co-manage patients, meaning they work together to provide the best possible treatment.
There is one more eye specialist you may have heard of—an optician. Opticians fill prescriptions written by optometrists and ophthalmologists. They also help patients choose and fit eyeglass frames. In some states, they can fit contact lenses after completing a certification program.
Your vision is critical to every part of your life, so it’s important to have access to the right specialists.
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“Eye Doctors: Optometrists and Ophthalmologists