Difference in Optometrist and Opthalmologist?

Question

According to my Optometrist, the eye exams and diagnosis he would perform would be no different than an Opthalmologist. The only difference is if he found a problem he could not treat it, he would have to refer me to an Opthalmologist. Does anyone know how true this is?

Answer 1

An opthalmologist is more of an eye surgeon who is trained and licensed in performing procedures on the eye. An optometrist is not licensed to perform procedures on the eyes, I think. My mother used to work for a good opthalmologist for a long time.

Answer 2

opthamolagist can perform surgery and optometrist cant

Answer 3

Yes that is basically true.

Answer 4

That's generally true, but an optometrist can treat some problems.  It depends on the state you live in, but optometrists are allowed to treat some eye infections and problems.  Anything requiring more drugs or any surgery would require an ophthalmologist, though.

And optometrists have O.D. after their names. ;)

Answer 5

Ophthalmology is the branch of medicine which deals with the diseases and surgery of the visual pathways, including the eye, brain, and areas surrounding the eye, such as the lacrimal system and eyelids

Optometry is a doctoral-degree health care profession concerned with eyes and related structures, as well as vision, visual systems, and vision information processing in humans.

Answer 6

Your Optometrist told you the truth.

In most cases, the optometrist will do a better routine eye exam than an ophthalmologist.

The optometrist trained a lot longer in that area.

Answer 7

What he said is true. An opthalmologist has an "M.D." behind his name, an optometrist doesn't.

Answer 8

That is true because an optometrist is only licensed to measure eyesight and examine the eyes, he is a DO, the ophthalmologist is a Medical Doctor- MD he is licensed to diagnose and treat pathology of the eye,  via medication, or referral for surgery if appropriate