What is an ophthalmologist, an optometrist, an optician, an orthoptist?

First, it's important to understand what each type of eye care professional can do for you:

• Ophthalmologist: An ophthalmologist is qualified to treat eye diseases, prescribe medications, and perform all types of surgery to improve, or prevent the worsening of, eye and vision-related conditions. An ophthalmologist has graduated from medical school and will have the initials "M.D." (Doctor of Medicine) after his or her name.
• Optometrist: An optometrist is qualified to diagnose eye diseases and prescribe eyeglasses, contact lenses, low vision devices, vision therapy, and certain medications to treat eye diseases. An optometrist has graduated from optometry school and will have the initials "O.D." (Doctor of Optometry) after his or her name.

Please note: Some states have passed legislation that allows optometrists to perform certain surgical procedures, such as laser treatment; administer injections, such as local anesthesia or treatment for macular degeneration; and prescribe additional medications. Visit the American Optometric Association web site to determine if your state permits optometrists to perform these additional procedures.

• Low Vision Specialist: Many optometrists and some ophthalmologists have an additional credential or specialization in low vision testing, diagnosis, and treatment, and are trained to conduct low vision eye examinations and prescribe special low vision optical devices.

If you're experiencing significant vision loss, a low vision specialist can determine whether special optical and non-optical devices, improved lighting, or other types of specialized services and equipment can help.

• Orthoptist: An orthoptist works under the supervision of an ophthalmologist and/or optometrist to evaluate and treat eye disorders with an emphasis on binocular vision (using both eyes to see) and eye movements; much of their work is with children. An orthoptist has a baccalaureate degree in addition to a two-year orthoptic internship. An orthoptist has not graduated from medical school or optometry school.
• Optician: An optician fits eyeglasses and, in some states, contact lenses; analyzes and interprets prescriptions written by ophthalmologists or optometrists; and takes eye measurements to ensure that eyeglass prescriptions are correct and fit properly. An optician has not graduated from medical school or optometry school.

Locate an eye care professional in your area

• Visit the American Academy of Ophthalmology web site and use their "Find an Eye MD" online database to locate an ophthalmologist in your area.
• Visit the American Optometric Association web site and use their "Dr. Locator" online database to locate an optometrist in your area.
• Use our searchable databases to locate a low vision specialist in your area.
• Ask for a recommendation from family members, friends, or your family doctor.
• Call your local hospitals and ask if they have outpatient ophthalmology departments.
• Check your health insurance plan for listings of approved eye care providers.
• In most cases, it is not recommended that you visit an optician for your initial exam and diagnosis.

If your vision loss can't be corrected and interferes with your everyday living, vision rehabilitation services can help maintain or restore your independent living skills.