What is the difference between an ophthalmologist and an optometrist?

Answer by  CarolynOsborne (2804)

While both an ophthalmologist and an optometrist have training in taking care of the eye in relation to disease and vision correction, the ophthalmologist is actually a medical doctor (with an M.D.) in addition to having specialization in eye disease and vision correction. If you have any kind of medical complications such as diabetes, go to an ophthalmologist.

Answer by  John (9008)

An ophthalmologist is a medical doctor (MD) who has completed a residency. An optometrist is a doctor of optometry. Ophthalmologists can generally do more than optometrists; they are basically regular doctors who specialize in treating eyes. Optometrists are not trained as doctors, although they are qualified to prescribe glasses.

Answer by  jackie (276)

An ophthalmologist is a medical doctor who specializes in diseases of the eye but can also test vision and prescribe lenses. An optometrist is not a medical doctor, but a trained professional who can test vision and prescribe lenses.