Ophthalmologist is a medical doctor (M.D.) who specializes in eye and vision care. Ophthalmology is a branch of medicine specializing in the anatomy, function and diseases of the eye. Ophthalmologists are specially trained to provide the full spectrum of eye care, from prescribing glasses and contact lenses to complex and delicate eye surgery. Many ophthalmologists are also involved in scientific research into the causes and cures for eye diseases and vision problems.

The term 'optometrist' came into use in 1987 to replace 'ophthalmic optician' in the same way that 'pharmacist' replaced 'chemist'. An optician can be ophthalmic, dispensing or manufacturing; it is the optometrist who is qualified to test your eyes. Some dispensing opticians have extra qualifications that enable them to fit contact lenses and carry out certain clinical tests.

The optometrist generally serves as a primary care clinician who evaluates and treats a variety of visual performance and eye health conditions. Patients with complicated eye diseases are referred to ophthalmologists, neurologists, internists or whatever combination of care is appropriate. The ophthalmologist is the physician specializing in the medical and surgical treatment of eye disease. The optician is trained in the production and application of spectacles and contact lenses.

By the BabyCenter editorial staff, from: http://www.babycenter.com/refcap/baby/babydevelopment/1437477.html Ophthalmologists and optometrists both do eye examinations, diagnose and treat vision problems and eye diseases, and prescribe eye glasses and contact lenses. The difference is in their training and the scope of their practice: Ophthalmologists are medical doctors who specialize in eyes.

An Ophthalmologist is a medical doctor with specialty training in the diagnosis and treatment of eye diseases. An ophthalmologist's training consists of college, 4 years of medical school, and 3 to 4 years in a residency program specializing in medical and surgical eye care. Optometrist prescribes glasses and contact lenses, but is not a medical doctor, and does not treat all eye diseases nor do eye surgery. An Optician is a specialist in the fitting and production of glasses.

Doctors of optometry (i.e. OD's) are independent primary health care providers who examine, diagnose, treat (if TPA certified) and manage diseases and disorders of the visual system, the eye and associated structures. Optometrists are highly educated and trained to diagnose disease and pathological conditions manifested in the human eye, such as glaucoma and diabetic retinopathy. An ophthalmologist is a physician who specializes in diagnosing and treating eye diseases.

There are three different kinds of professionals involved with the care of the eyes, so it may not come as a surprise to you that there is some confusion over who does what. Optometrists are defined as healthcare professionals trained and licensed to provide primary eyecare services.

optometrist (O.D.) is a professional who attends four years of college, and 4 years of post graduate training in treating refractive errors and diseases of the eye. Optometrists are involved in the pre- and post-operative care of patients who have eye surgery. Optometrists are licensed to treat eye diseases. An optometrist is not a medical doctor or surgeon, but works closely with Dr. Denman to insure the highest level of patient care.

optician is licensed to fit, adjust, and dispense glasses and other optical devices on the written prescription of a licensed physician or optometrist.

optician is a licensed individual who can fabricate and dispense eyeglasses. He/she is an expert in "optics" which has to do with how lenses work and how they interact with your eyes.

Optometrist is a doctor of optometry (O.D.). Such a professional is licensed to practice optometry and specializes in determining the need for glasses and screens the patient for abnormalities of the eye. The optometric education consists of 2-4 years of college and 4 years in an optometric college. The optometrist treats visual disturbances with glasses and contact lenses and may also prescribe exercises for muscle imbalances.