Eye Care Professionals: Understanding the Difference in the Three O’s

We all use our eyes every day to work, play, and view our world. With over 80 percent of the world perceived through our eyes, taking proper care of them becomes critical.

Many people are unclear on exactly which eye care professional they need when they have a problem.

Here is a quick breakdown of the three main eye care professionals you might run into.

Opticians, Optometrists, and Ophthalmologists all work with issues related to your eyes. While their names may seem confusing, each one has unique skills. To learn who they are and what they do, read on.

The Optician

The role of an Optician is that of a technical specialist. They fit and fabricate eyewear, including computer glasses, myopia control eyewear, anti-fatigue and free-form lens designs, progressive lenses, sunglasses, or safety and sports eyewear.

Depending on the state in which you live, Opticians may require a license to practice.

Michigan, unfortunately, DOES NOT require opticians to have ANY kind of training or education to deal with your eyewear. So, you need to be careful. Many offices utilize untrained or poorly trained ‘dispensers or stylists’ to sell glasses. You should always ask if your optician is A.B.O. Certified.

At Goodrich Optical, our opticians have chosen to maintain state licensure or have advanced certification in opticianry. That is your assurance that you are getting the correct prescription in properly fitted eyewear.

Key Responsibilities:

• Interpret prescriptions as required for specialized eyewear uses and patient needs.

• Educate and assist patients with frame and lens selections appropriate to their needs.

• Measure and record up to 14 separate fitting values and unique facial measurements.

• Fit, fabricate, adjust, and repair glasses and contact lenses.

Think of them as:The technical specialists who bring your prescription to life with proper eyewear or contacts.

The Optometrist

An optometrist in Lansing is typically the entry point for comprehensive eye care. They can test your vision to see if you need glasses or contact lenses.

Optometrists also play a key role in the detection and management of many diseases, such as diabetes, cataracts, glaucoma, diabetic retinopathy, macular degeneration, and more.

Key Responsibilities:

• Perform comprehensive eye exams and vision tests

• Diagnose common eye conditions (myopia, hyperopia, astigmatism, presbyopia)

• Detect diseases like diabetes, glaucoma, cataracts, and macular degeneration

• Prescribe corrective lenses (glasses and contact lenses)

• Prescribe medications for certain eye conditions

• Provide pre- and post-operative care for surgical patients

• Cannot perform surgery (with some exceptions in certain regions)

Think of them as:The primary care doctor for your eyes.

The Ophthalmologist

An ophthalmologist is a medical doctor specializing in the eyes. They treat serious eye diseases and injuries, and also perform eye surgeries.

Typically, you would see an optometrist, like Dr. David Bosak, as your primary eye doctor and then be referred to an ophthalmologist (specialist) for specific treatment or emergent care.

Key Responsibilities:

• All services provided by optometrists

• Perform eye surgery (LASIK, cataract removal, retinal repair, corneal transplants)

• Treat complex eye diseases and injuries

• Manage systemic conditions affecting the eyes (diabetic retinopathy, macular degeneration, etc.)

• Conduct research and teach

• Can prescribe all medications and treatments

Think of them as:Medical doctors who specialize in serious eye conditions and surgical interventions.

Conclusion

Taking proper care of your eyes starts with seeing the right person for the job. Opticians, optometrists, and ophthalmologists. While they all do different jobs, they are all there to help you with your eye health needs.

If you are still unsure, or simply want more information, see our website – GoodrichOptical.com or give us a call.

FAQs

Q. What’s the difference between an optician, optometrist, and ophthalmologist?

Opticians fit eyewear, optometrists perform exams and manage eye health, and ophthalmologists treat serious conditions and perform surgery.

Q. When should I see an optometrist?

You should see an optometrist if you experience vision issues or for routine eye exams to detect eye diseases early on.

Q. Do I need a certified optician?

Yes, you should always see a certified optician, as they write accurate prescriptions and ensure you get proper eyewear.