What Is an Eye Doctor Called?

Navigating the world of eye care can sometimes be confusing, especially when trying to decipher the different types of specialists involved. Whether you’re looking for solutions for common vision issues or more advanced surgical interventions, understanding what each type of eye doctor does is crucial. Generally, eye care professionals fall into three main categories: optometrists, ophthalmologists, and opticians.

Optometrists are healthcare professionals who provide primary vision care, ranging from eye exams and vision tests to detecting certain eye abnormalities and prescribing corrective lenses. Meanwhile, ophthalmologists are medical doctors specializing in eye and vision care. They perform eye exams, diagnose and treat disease, prescribe medication, and conduct surgeries such as laser eye surgery in Canberra, helping patients achieve clearer vision. On the other hand, opticians are trained to design, verify, and fit lenses and frames for eyeglasses.

While all three play essential roles in addressing eye health, many people wonder specifically, “What is an eye doctor called?” This term often refers collectively to both optometrists and ophthalmologists. When choosing an eye care professional, it’s important to consider your specific needs, as well as the specialist’s qualifications and expertise.