Frequently Asked Questions
What is Ophthalmology?
Ophthalmology is the medical specialty dedicated to the study of the eye's structure and function, and to the diagnosis and treatment of diseases affecting them. Ophthalmologists are required to have a medical degree, allowing them to prescribe all needed medications and perform surgical procedures when necessary. In addition to refraction (prescribing glasses and contact lenses), ophthalmologists concentrate their interests with medical and surgical diseases of the eye. Ophthalmologists are uniquely eye doctors.
What is the difference between ophthalmologists, optometrists and opticians?
Ophthalmologists, optometrists and opticians all provide eye care services. It is important to understand what each of the "three O's" is qualified to do.
The following definitions are from the National Institute of Health's National Institute on Aging
Ophthalmologists
"Ophthalmologists (M.D. or D.O., Doctor of Osteopathy) specialize in the diagnosis and treatment of eye diseases. They also prescribe eyeglasses and contact lenses. Ophthalmologists can prescribe drugs and perform surgery."
Optometrists
"Optometrists (O.D.) generally have a bachelor's degree plus 4 years of graduate training in a school of optometry. They are trained to diagnose eye abnormalities and prescribe, supply, and adjust eyeglasses and contact lenses. In most states optometrists can use drugs to diagnose eye disorders. An optometrist may refer patients to an ophthalmologist or other medical specialist in cases requiring medication or surgery."
Opticians
"Opticians fit, supply, and adjust eyeglasses and contact lenses which have been prescribed by an ophthalmologist or optometrist. They cannot examine or test the eyes, or prescribe glasses or drugs."