Knowing who to see: Understanding the roles of eye health professionals

(NC) When it comes to taking care of your eyes, it’s important to know which specialist to turn to for the right support. With several types of eye health professionals playing unique roles, understanding the difference between them can help ensure you get the best care possible.

An ophthalmologist, also known as an Eye MD, is a medical doctor and surgeon with specialized training in the diagnosis and treatment of eye diseases. They manage serious conditions, and are the only ones who are trained both medically and surgically to treat and manage serious or advanced eye diseases, including diabetic retinopathy, glaucoma, cataracts and age-related macular degeneration.

An optometrist is a licensed health care professional who can perform eye exams; write prescriptions for glasses, contact lenses, and some medications; and diagnose and treat some eye diseases. They’re often the first point of contact for vision concerns.

An optician is a licensed health care professional trained to help you see better, whether you’re nearsighted, farsighted or have low vision due to more complex eye health issues. They’re specially trained to design, fit, and dispense eyeglasses, contact lenses, low vision aids and prosthetic ocular devices.

An orthoptist is a specialized clinician who focuses on disorders related to eye movement and coordination. Often working in hospitals or eye clinics, orthoptists help manage conditions such as strabismus (eye misalignment) and amblyopia (lazy eye) using non-surgical methods, like vision therapy and eye exercises.

Each of these professionals plays a vital role in maintaining vision and overall eye health. Understanding their differences can help ensure that Canadians get the most appropriate care when it’s needed.

With the support of Specsavers, the “My Corner of Canada” photography contest is helping showcase the role of vision in connecting Canadians by having participants submit photos showing what their community means to them. You can find more information at seethepossibilities.ca.