What is the Difference Between an Optometrist and an Ophthalmologist?

Optometrists and ophthalmologists are both eye doctors, but they have different levels of training and expertise. Optometrists are the first line of care for your eye health, performing routine eye exams, prescribing corrective lenses, and knowing when a person needs to see an eye doctor. Ophthalmologists are doctors who have completed college and at least eight years of additional medical training, and they are licensed to practice medicine and surgery. They diagnose and treat all eye diseases, perform eye surgery, and prescribe and adjust eyeglasses and contact lenses to correct vision problems.

Optometrists and ophthalmologists often work together in the same office to provide quality eye care that focuses on vision, eye health, and any changes that may suggest an underlying health problem. Studies have shown that care can be more appropriate and cost-effective when optometrists and eye doctors work together. Where you live and whether or not you have health care coverage can also influence whether you see an optometrist or an eye doctor for your eye health. It's important to know the differences between an optometrist and an eye doctor when looking for an eye doctor.

An optometrist provides primary visual care that ranges from eye tests and corrections to the diagnosis, treatment, and management of changes in vision. An ophthalmologist has additional medical and surgical training that allows them to perform a wide range of surgical and interventional procedures. Projects such as ECHO (Extension for Community Healthcare Outcomes) help reduce unnecessary visits to eye doctors so that they can be available to help people who need more specialized eye care. That's why it's important to visit a medical optometrist every year as part of your regular health routines for optimal health.

In summary, optometrists are the first line of care for your eye health, providing routine eye exams, prescribing corrective lenses, and knowing when a person needs to see an eye doctor. Ophthalmologists are doctors who have completed college and at least eight years of additional medical training, licensed to practice medicine and surgery. They diagnose and treat all eye diseases, perform eye surgery, and prescribe and adjust eyeglasses and contact lenses to correct vision problems.