What Is Optometry?
Optometry is a healthcare profession that deals with the eyes and the visual system.
A practitioner of optometry is referred to as an optometrist, or Doctor of Optometry. An optometrist is a healthcare professional and eye specialist who performs a variety of medical services related to the diagnosis and treatment of eye disorders. Dr. Semaan is a board certified optometrist with the highest level of optometric licensure for diagnosing and treating eye disease. As one of California’s top eye doctors, Dr. Semaan:
- Measures eyesight
- Detects eye disorders and diseases, such as refractive errors or vision health problems
- Prescribes corrective lenses (glasses or contacts)
- Manages eye disease and visual disorders and prescribe eye medications
- Advises patients on surgical and non-surgical treatment options for eye conditions
- Provides vision therapy
What is the difference between an optometrist, an ophthalmologist, and an optician?
Optometrists, ophthalmologists, and opticians are all eye care specialists. However, they differ in their level of training and the type of care that they provide.
- An optometrist is a licensed practitioner who provides primary vision care and manages any changes in vision that a patient may experience, but does not perform surgery. An optometrist has earned the title of Doctor of Optometry (OD). To earn the degree of Doctor of Optometry, an individual must complete a four-year undergraduate degree and a four-year post-graduate program at an accredited school of optometry.
- An ophthalmologist is a medical doctor (MD) who has completed an undergraduate degree and eight years of combined medical school and training. As a practitioner who has completed medical school, a licensed ophthalmologist is qualified to perform surgery.
- A optician is a technician who fits a patient with corrective eyewear, based on the prescription provided by an optometrist or an opthamologist. No formal medical or university training is needed to become an optician, but rather involves on-the-job training.
All three types of eye specialists are necessary for the comprehensive care of the eyes. However, the routine eye exam begins with an optometrist. If you are unsure about which eye care professional you should consult, contact Beach Eye Medical Group in Orange County, California. Our expert staff will be happy to discuss your needs and schedule an appointment with one of our qualified eye professionals.