VOLUME 43: What Distinguishes an Ophthalmologist From an Optometrist?

When it comes to eye care, you’ve likely come across both optometrists and ophthalmologists. While they both play an essential role in maintaining your eye health, their qualifications, responsibilities, and the services they offer differ significantly. Understanding the distinction can help you determine who to visit based on your needs—whether it’s a routine eye test, a new prescription for glasses, or treatment for a serious eye condition. This guide explores the key differences between optometrists and ophthalmologists, how they work together, and when you might need to see one over the other.

What is an optometrist?

An optometrist is your go-to professional for primary eye care. They are trained to assess your vision, detect common eye conditions, and prescribe glasses or contact lenses.

Services provided by an optometrist

• Conduct routine eye tests to check your vision and overall eye health.
• Prescribe and fit glasses or contact lenses.
• Detect early signs of eye conditions like glaucoma or cataracts.
• Offer treatment for minor eye infections and dry eye syndrome.
• Provide referrals to ophthalmologists if specialised care is needed.

Qualifications of an optometrist

• A Bachelor of Optometry (BOptom) or equivalent qualification.
• Clinical training in diagnosing and managing eye conditions.
• Registration with the Optometrists and Dispensing Opticians Board of New Zealand (ODOB).

While optometrists can prescribe glasses and contact lenses, they do not perform eye surgery.

What is an ophthalmologist?

An ophthalmologist is a medical doctor who specialises in diagnosing and treating complex eye diseases. They have advanced training and can perform eye surgeries.

Services provided by an ophthalmologist

• Diagnose and treat serious eye diseases, including macular degeneration and diabetic retinopathy.
• Perform eye surgeries such as cataract removal and LASIK.
• Administer medical treatments like laser therapy and eye injections.
• Provide care for trauma-related eye injuries.
• Prescribe medications for more severe eye conditions.

Qualifications of an ophthalmologist

• A medical degree (MBBS or equivalent).
• Several years of specialist training in ophthalmology.
• Registration with the Royal Australian and New Zealand College of Ophthalmologists (RANZCO).

This rigorous training equips ophthalmologists with the expertise to diagnose and manage complex eye conditions, including performing surgical procedures. Learn more about the professional scope of ophthalmology training and how it shapes their ability to provide advanced eye care.

Key differences between an optometrist and an ophthalmologist

Optometrists focus on vision care and general eye health management, while ophthalmologists specialise in diagnosing and treating serious eye conditions. Optometrists typically complete a bachelor’s degree followed by a master’s in optometry, whereas ophthalmologists undergo medical school and specialist training. Both can prescribe glasses and contact lenses, although ophthalmologists do so less frequently. Optometrists diagnose eye diseases but refer complex cases to ophthalmologists, who provide advanced treatment. While optometrists handle basic eye care, ophthalmologists manage complex conditions and perform surgeries.

In short, optometrists handle routine eye care and prescriptions, while ophthalmologists manage serious eye diseases and surgeries.

How do eye prescriptions work in New Zealand?

If you’re ordering glasses in New Zealand, you might notice that eye prescriptions look slightly different from those in other countries. While the essential details remain the same, the way they are formatted and recorded can vary.

Key differences in eye prescriptions across countries

• Terminology: Some prescriptions use “SPH” (Sphere) to indicate lens power, while others may label it as “Power” or “Strength.”
• Formats: In some countries, prescriptions automatically include Pupillary Distance (PD), but in New Zealand, it’s often measured separately.
• Units of Measurement: While most prescriptions use dioptres in decimal format (e.g., -2.00), some optometrists may write it differently, such as -200.

Ordering the right lenses is simple regardless of how your prescription is formatted. Simply upload your prescription, and the correct lenses will be provided for clear and comfortable vision.

Do you need a referral to see an ophthalmologist?

Whether you need a referral to see an ophthalmologist depends on your location and the type of care required. In New Zealand, you typically need a referral from an optometrist or general practitioner (GP) before booking an appointment with an ophthalmologist.

This referral process helps ensure:

• You receive the appropriate level of specialist care for your condition.
• The ophthalmologist has all the necessary medical records and test results.
• You are prioritised based on the urgency of your eye health needs.

In some cases, such as urgent eye injuries or certain private ophthalmology clinics, you may be able to book an appointment directly. However, having a referral is usually required, especially when seeking treatment through the public healthcare system or for complex eye conditions.

How do optometrists and ophthalmologists work together?

Optometrists and ophthalmologists collaborate to provide comprehensive eye care. Here’s how they work as a team:

• Step 1: Eye Examination – An optometrist assesses your vision and checks for potential eye issues. Learn what an eye test for reading glasses involves and how it helps determine the right prescription for your needs.
• Step 2: Referral (if needed) – If a serious condition is found, the optometrist will refer you to an ophthalmologist.
• Step 3: Treatment Plan – The ophthalmologist diagnoses and treats the condition (with surgery or medical treatment if required).
• Step 4: Ongoing Care – Once treated, patients often return to their optometrist for routine check-ups and prescription updates.

By working together, optometrists and ophthalmologists ensure patients receive both preventive and specialised care when needed.

Conclusion

Choosing the right eye care professional depends on your needs. If you need a routine eye test or a new pair of glasses, an optometrist is the best choice. However, for surgery or complex eye conditions, an ophthalmologist is the expert to consult.

If you’re looking for new glasses, discover how Dresden Vision can help you find high-quality, affordable eyewear with ease.