Pediatric ophthalmology or optometry?? What's the difference?

Question

School nurse called me. 8 year old daughter having trouble seeing blackboard at school. Did vision test and vision is 20/50. Nurse thinks she may need glasses. Do I call ophthalmologist or optometrist (sp?)? What's the difference? Thank you for your help!

Answer 1

An opthalmologist is a medical doctor who has specialized in disorders of the eye. He may prescribe medication and do surgery if training is such.

An Optometrist is one who has been trained to do eye exams and prescribe glasses.  In some states he may administer eye drops to test for certain abnormalities.

An optician is one who is trained to fit and make corrective lenses.

I think your child need s to be seen by an Optometrist.

Answer 2

Replace is mostly correct -

The main difference between an ophthalmologist and optometrist is that ophthalmologists perform surgery.  Think of your optometrist as your primary care doctor for your eyes.

Optometrists can use and prescribe eye drops in all states and can prescribe oral medications and steroids in most states.

Your daughter could be seen by either but an ophthalmologist may be overkill.