VOLUME 44: Can Opticians Provide Prescriptions?

If you're shopping for new glasses, you may be wondering whether an optician can provide a prescription. While opticians are essential in the eyewear industry, they don’t actually conduct eye tests or issue prescriptions. So, who should you see when your vision changes? Understanding the roles of eye care professionals can save you time and ensure you get the right eyewear for your needs. This guide explains what opticians can and can’t do and when to visit an optometrist.

What does an optician do?

Opticians are highly skilled at helping you select and fit eyewear, but their role doesn’t include diagnosing vision problems or writing prescriptions. Instead, they specialise in providing glasses that meet your existing prescription.

Key responsibilities of an optician:

• Assisting customers in choosing frames that suit their face shape, lifestyle, and preferences
• Providing advice on lens types, coatings, and upgrades
• Ensuring glasses are adjusted for comfort and correct positioning
• Repairing minor frame issues, such as loose screws or misaligned arms
• Educating customers on caring for their glasses to maintain quality

What opticians cannot do:

• Conduct eye exams
• Diagnose eye conditions such as glaucoma or cataracts
• Prescribe corrective lenses

While opticians excel at ensuring your glasses look good and feel comfortable, they rely on prescriptions from optometrists or ophthalmologists to guide their work.

Who can legally prescribe corrective lenses?

In New Zealand, only qualified eye care professionals are authorised to prescribe corrective lenses. Understanding the regulations for eye care professionals ensures you receive safe and accurate treatment.

Eye care professionals and their roles:

Who should you visit?

• For an eye exam or prescription, see an optometrist or ophthalmologist.
• For glasses fitting and advice, an optician is your go-to expert.

In-store optometrists provide comprehensive eye exams and prescription services, ensuring you receive accurate results.

When should you see an optometrist instead of an optician?

While opticians are ideal for adjusting glasses or offering lens advice, there are times when visiting an optometrist is the smarter choice.

See an optometrist if you experience:

• Blurry vision, double vision, or difficulty focusing
• Frequent headaches, especially after screen use
• Eye strain or discomfort
• Sudden changes in vision or eye pain
• Signs of eye conditions, such as floaters or light flashes

Optometrists are trained to diagnose eye conditions and offer treatment options, ensuring your vision and eye health are well-managed.

Are optometrists considered doctors in New Zealand?

In New Zealand, optometrists are recognised as primary healthcare providers with extensive training. Although they aren't medical doctors, they undergo rigorous education and clinical training to deliver comprehensive eye care. Understanding the difference between an optometrist and an ophthalmologist can help you choose the right professional for your needs.

New Zealand optometrist qualifications include:

• Bachelor of Optometry (BOptom) degree
• Registration with the Optometrists and Dispensing Opticians Board of New Zealand
• Ongoing professional development to stay current with industry advancements

Optometrists can diagnose and manage conditions such as glaucoma, cataracts, and macular degeneration. They can also refer patients to ophthalmologists for advanced care when required.

Can an optician modify or adjust an existing prescription?

Opticians cannot legally alter your prescription, but they can recommend upgrades to enhance comfort and visual clarity. If you need to convert an ophthalmologist’s prescription for glasses fitting, understanding the process can ensure you get the right lenses.

Examples of optician-recommended upgrades include:

• Blue light filters: Reduce eye strain from digital screens.
• Photochromic lenses: Automatically darken in bright light for comfort outdoors.
• Anti-reflective coatings: Improve clarity by reducing glare from headlights and screens.
• Scratch-resistant coatings: Help extend the lifespan of your lenses.

What is required to obtain an eyeglass prescription?

To get a valid prescription, you must visit an optometrist or ophthalmologist for a comprehensive eye exam. This ensures your prescription reflects your current vision needs.

What happens during an eye exam?

An eye exam typically includes several key tests to assess your vision and eye health:

1. Visual acuity test: Measures how clearly you can see at different distances.

2. Refraction test: Determines the correct lens power needed to correct your vision.

3. Eye pressure test: Screens for conditions like glaucoma.

4. Retinal examination: Identifies signs of eye conditions such as macular degeneration or diabetic retinopathy.

After the exam, your optometrist will provide a written prescription that outlines your vision correction needs.

What happens if you wear the wrong prescription?

Wearing glasses with an incorrect prescription can cause discomfort and potential eye strain.

Symptoms of wearing the wrong prescription:

• Blurry or distorted vision
• Frequent headaches or dizziness
• Eye fatigue, particularly after reading or screen use
• Difficulty focusing on objects

Ignoring these symptoms can lead to long-term discomfort and may impact your ability to perform everyday tasks. If you notice any of these issues, book an eye exam to review your prescription.

How do you ensure your prescription is accurate?

Getting an accurate prescription is crucial for clear vision and comfort. Following these steps can help ensure reliable results.

Tips for ensuring prescription accuracy:

• Book regular eye exams — at least once every two years or as recommended.
• Use an online pupil distance measurement tool for precise lens alignment.
• Communicate your concerns — tell your optometrist about headaches, eye strain, or vision changes.
• Choose trusted eyewear providers for high-quality lenses and expert advice.

Conclusion

While opticians are vital in helping you choose the right frames and lenses, only optometrists and ophthalmologists can provide prescriptions. For clear vision and accurate results, discover how Dresden Vision makes vision care easier.