Expert ADVICE
What is the Difference Between an Optometrist, Ophthalmologist and Optician?
DR. MARK RASMUSSEN, OD Optometric Physician 1651 Galisteo St, Suite 1 505.983.7746 ultimateeyecaresantafe.com
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e have many patients ask us what the difference is between an optometrist, ophthalmologist and optician. While they all work in eye care, each performs separate but necessary functions in keeping your eyes healthy. Let’s start with an optometrist. Think of an optometrist as the primary care physician for your eyes. An optometrist (otherwise known as an optometric physician) is usually the primary health provider for the overall health and vision of your eye. Optometric physicians diagnose and treat many eye-health related conditions, such as diabetes and glaucoma. They also diagnose and treat infections of the eye. Optometric physicians also check your vision for vision acuity
problems such as farsightedness and nearsightedness, prescribing glasses or contacts as needed. Dr. Mark Rasmussen is an optometric physician. An ophthalmologist can perform the same functions as an optometric physician, but they are usually specialists in different areas of the eyes. Your optometric physician will refer you to an ophthalmologist when any condition you might have requires more specific care or even surgery. For instance, a patient with diabetes could be referred to a retina specialist for surgical intervention if needed.
An optician, on the other hand, is the person who helps you with your spectacles. They will use your prescription and the recommendations of the optometric physician to prescribe the right pair of lenses that help you see most clearly. They will dispense these lenses to you, making sure your frame fits correctly. At Ultimate Eyecare Santa Fe, we are pleased to welcome Ken Shaw from Acoma to our office as an optician! He will be seeing patients and helping them by appointment. We look forward to seeing you soon!