VOLUME 51: What Distinguishes an Ophthalmologist From an Optometrist?

Choosing the right eye care professional is crucial for maintaining good vision and overall eye health. However, many people confuse the roles of optometrists and ophthalmologists. While both specialise in eye care, their training, responsibilities, and services differ significantly.

If you're considering an eye exam, need a new prescription for glasses, or require treatment for an eye condition, understanding these differences will help you make an informed decision. This guide breaks down the key distinctions between optometrists and ophthalmologists, ensuring you know who to see for your specific needs.

What is an optometrist?

An optometrist is a primary eye care professional who specialises in vision correction, eye health assessments, and detecting common eye conditions. They are not medical doctors but undergo four to five years of university education in optometry.

What does an optometrist do?

Optometrists provide a range of services, including:

• Conducting comprehensive tests to assess vision and overall eye health.
• Prescribing glasses and contact lenses for vision correction.
• Detecting and managing common eye conditions like dry eyes, glaucoma, and cataracts.
• Providing referrals to ophthalmologists for advanced treatment when needed.
• Advising on eye health maintenance, including digital eye strain and blue light exposure.

What is an ophthalmologist?

An ophthalmologist is a medical doctor who specialises in eye diseases, surgery, and advanced treatments. They complete a medical degree and undergo several years of specialised ophthalmology training.

What does an ophthalmologist do?

Ophthalmologists provide:

• Surgical procedures, including cataract surgery, LASIK, and retinal detachment repairs.
• Management of chronic eye conditions like glaucoma.
• Prescriptions for glasses and contact lenses (though optometrists handle most prescriptions).
• Diagnosis and treatment of serious eye diseases, such as macular degeneration and diabetic retinopathy. If you're looking for more information, reputable health organisations provide valuable resources on diabetic retinopathy management.

When should you see an ophthalmologist?

You might need to see an ophthalmologist if:

• You have persistent vision problems or severe eye pain.
• Your optometrist refers you for further testing or surgery.
• You need advanced treatment for an eye disease.

Key differences between an optometrist and an ophthalmologist

Optometrists complete 4 to 5 years of optometry school, while ophthalmologists first earn a medical degree followed by 4 to 5 years of ophthalmology training. Both professionals can prescribe glasses and contact lenses. Optometrists diagnose and manage minor eye conditions but refer patients to ophthalmologists for complex or severe cases. While optometrists can diagnose serious eye diseases, ophthalmologists specialise in treating them. Unlike optometrists, ophthalmologists perform eye surgery. Optometrists typically work in optical stores, clinics, and private practices, whereas ophthalmologists are commonly found in hospitals, eye clinics, and private practices.

For most vision correction needs, an optometrist is your go-to professional. If you need eye surgery or specialised treatment, you’ll likely need a referral to an ophthalmologist.

How do eye prescriptions work in Canada?

Prescriptions vary across regions. If you’ve recently had an eye exam in Canada, you may notice:

• Different terminologies – Some prescriptions use ‘SPH’ (sphere) for lens power, while others may list it differently.
• Format variations – Canadian prescriptions might look different from those in Australia or New Zealand, but they provide the same essential details.
• Pupil distance (PD) – This measurement isn’t always included in prescriptions, but online tools can help you measure it accurately when ordering glasses.

Do you need a referral to see an ophthalmologist?

In most cases, yes, you’ll need a referral from an optometrist or GP before seeing an ophthalmologist. This ensures that specialist appointments are reserved for those who truly need them.

Why do you need a referral?

• Initial assessment by an optometrist – Optometrists can diagnose and manage many eye conditions, reducing unnecessary specialist visits. If your condition requires further care, they’ll refer you to an ophthalmologist.
• Health insurance requirements – Some private health insurers require a referral for specialist consultations to be covered under your policy.
• Prioritising urgent cases – A referral system helps ophthalmologists see urgent cases first, such as retinal detachment or severe eye infections, ensuring timely treatment.

If you're experiencing vision problems, eye pain, or unusual symptoms, it’s best to start with an optometrist. They can assess your condition and determine if an ophthalmologist referral is necessary.

How do optometrists and ophthalmologists work together?

Optometrists and ophthalmologists often collaborate to ensure comprehensive eye care. Here’s how they work together:

• Routine check-ups & early detection – Optometrists perform regular check-ups, prescribe glasses or contact lenses, and detect early signs of eye conditions such as glaucoma, cataracts, or macular degeneration. If you're considering an eye exam, you might also be curious about what an eye test for reading glasses involves and how to prepare for it. Understanding the process can help you get the most out of your appointment.
• Referral for specialist care – If an optometrist identifies a serious issue that requires medical or surgical treatment, they will refer you to an ophthalmologist for further evaluation and specialised care.
• Medical treatment & surgery – Ophthalmologists diagnose and treat complex eye diseases, perform surgeries (e.g., cataract removal or laser eye surgery), and manage long-term eye conditions.
• Ongoing care & follow-ups – After treatment or surgery, ophthalmologists often refer patients to their optometrists for routine monitoring, prescription updates, and long-term eye care.

This collaborative approach ensures patients receive the best possible care, whether they need a simple prescription update or specialised medical treatment. To maintain good eye health, consider seeing a qualified optometrist for regular check-ups.

Conclusion

Understanding the difference between an optometrist and an ophthalmologist helps you decide who to see for your eye care needs.

• See an optometrist for regular check-ups, glasses, and contact lenses.
• See an ophthalmologist if you need surgery or specialised treatment for eye diseases.
• Use your prescription from any country when ordering glasses.

If it’s time for your next eye exam, discover how Dresden Vision can help keep your vision in top shape.