There are several professions in eye care. Each profession fulfills different tasks and responsibilities. What do opticians, optometrists or ophthalmologists do?

Optician

Opticians are trained to design, verify and fit eyeglass lenses and frames and to dispense contact lenses or other devices to correct eyesight. In several European countries, opticians also perform eye exams as well as contact lens fittings, and write eyewear prescriptions. Opticians do not diagnose or treat eye diseases.

Optometrist

Optometrists are healthcare professionals who provide primary vision care, ranging from sight testing and correction to the diagnosis, treatment, and management of changes in vision. They are licensed to practice optometry, which primarily involves performing eye exams and vision tests, prescribing and dispensing corrective lenses and detecting certain eye abnormalities. An optometrist’s scope of practice varies in different countries.

Ophthalmologist

An ophthalmologist is a medical doctor who specializes in eye and vision care. As a medical doctor, an ophthalmologist is licensed to practice medicine and perform surgery. An ophthalmologist diagnoses and treats eye diseases and performs eye surgery. Additionally, he or she can prescribe eyewear prescriptions and contact lenses to correct vision problems. Many ophthalmologists are also involved in scientific research on the causes and cures for eye diseases and vision disorders.

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1. The eye-exam takes about 20 minutes from beginning to end. Is now a good time?

● No lost time traveling or waiting for your appointment. The only minutes spent is on the test itself.

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Do you have a smartphone, together with a laptop (or tablet), and 3 meters of space at your disposal?

● Your smartphone will function as a remote, and is also used together with a laptop (or tablet) to perform the online eye-exam.

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Do you have your current eyewear prescription at your fingertips?

● Your prescription powers your eyewear. Our optometrists use your old one as areference for validating your new prescription.

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