Both opticians and optometrists might be people that you seek out if you are looking for help with your eyes. But the services that they provide are quite different. Here, we will explore just what the difference is between an optician and an optometrists by looking at what each one does. Then, hopefully, the next time you need attention for eye problems, you know just who to contact.
Optician
An optician is the person who helps to correct eyesight through the use of lenses, frames, and other devices. They often make the prescriptions that optometrists might write for correctional lenses. Other services that they provide include modifying frames to suit special needs. They may also provide customers who need such services with things like artificial eyes. Monocles, spectacles, and contacts are usually the type of equipment needed by most of their customers. You may find these professionals in eye clinics and doctors’ offices, hospitals, retail centers and stores, and more. If certified in the United States, opticians have been specially trained in their field, and must continue education to keep up-to-date on things like equipment, medical findings, techniques, and more.
Optometry
Optometrists practice the science of optometry. These people are healthcare professionals who can help with eye examinations for either medical or vision related reasons. They are held to the very same standards as medical physicians in the US, and can write prescriptions for medications, as well as correctional visual equipment, like glasses. If you are having vision issues, or even medical issues with your eyes, these are the people that you will make an appointment with in their offices. Optometrists may work in hospitals, clinics, or private offices. In some places, these people can also perform surgery to help with vision and other issues.
Learning More
If you would like to learn more about either opticians or optometrists, the best place to look is online. Or, give a local professional working in your area a call. Chances are, they can tell you more about what services and products that they offer. You can also visit the webpages of professional organizations for both of these professionals. There, you can learn more about education, training, careers, and restrictions. Although it may seem a bit trivial, in times of need, knowing the difference between these two professionals may be very important, especially if you need help with your vision.
