How To Select An Eye Doctor

We get our wake up calls to see an eye doctor, when there is a problem with our vision or there is a serious problem affecting our eyes. But there are so many types of eye doctors that we hear about, optometrist, ophthalmologist, optician, eye surgeon and others. Who do we go to for which problem? And how do we know which eye doctor would be most suitable for the particular condition? If we understand the difference between the different specializations of eye doctors, it can be of great help in getting our eyes checked and eyesight rectified quickly and efficiently. Difficult as it may seem, the particular specialty of the eye doctor you need will depend on the type of services that you require from him or her.

Let us start with an optometrist. He or she is a doctor who can check your eyes for vision or any other eye-health related problems. Carrying the credential of an OD, or doctor of optometry, this type of doctor would decide on your need for glasses, and is able to fit contact lenses, if you so desire. He is eligible to recommend eye medicines and can offer pre or post surgical care, if you have had eye surgery. An optometrist would have finished four years of post-graduation in an optometry school. Some of these doctors also undergo specialty training programs in specific areas of eye care. They can diagnose common eye ailments like glaucoma and cataracts. When a particular problem requires surgical intervention they have to refer patients to an opthalmologist. Optometrists work closely with people suffering from astigmatism, farsightedness and nearsightedness.

An ophthalmologist (MD) on the other hand is an eye specialist. They are equipped to examine, treat and prescribe eye medicines and also conduct surgery. You can also expect prescriptions for eye glasses from them and expect them to fit your contact lenses. An ophthalmologist would generally carry an M.D. or D.O. degree. An ophthalmologist needs to go through at least four years of specialized training. They are licensed by a state regulatory board.

When you talk to an optician, remember he or she is not a doctor, though some states require them to be trained and licensed. Some states allow them to be certified, after undergoing a special training, to fit contact lenses. They usually sell and fit eyeglasses and sunglasses. An optician can also make special glasses which are made according to prescriptions issued by an optometrist or ophthalmologist. An optician can work with an ophthalmologist or optometrist work in to offer comprehensive eye care for their patients. A two-year degree in optometry is essential to become an optician. They can decipher an eye prescription and select the particular type of lens which will suit your specific needs.