Optician vs optometrist

Is there a difference between Opticians and Optometrists? Yes! The jobs of an optician and an optometrist are entirely different, and understanding the differences between the responsibilities of each is a common mistake. Let’s explore the reality of these distinctions.

Who is an Optician?

Education and Training

If someone is an optician, they have one or two years of training and experience and are licensed. They have been trained in fitting eyeglasses, frames, and contact lenses. They know how to fix your vision problems after you have been diagnosed. They have no training in performing eye exams or treating eye diseases. They can not write prescriptions.

Primary Responsibilities

While they are eye care professionals they are not eye doctors: They do not give eye exams. Their responsibilities are focused on everything else that occurs within an experience with the eye doctor.

Their responsibilities include but are not limited to:

  • Measuring clients’ facial features for fitting eye frames
  • Assisting clients in picking out frames and lenses 
  • Preparing work orders for grinding lenses and fabricating eyeglasses
  • Fabricating lenses to meet prescription specifications
  • Adjusting glasses to fit the client better
  • Informing clients how to take care for their glasses and/or contacts properly
  • Record keeping of client prescriptions and payments

Who is an Optometrist?

Education and Training

If someone has a career as an optometrist, they have a Doctor of Optometry degree. This degree is given to those who have completed 3 or more years of college followed by four years at an optometry school. While getting the degree, they are trained in performing eye exams and vision tests. They learn how to diagnose and treat eye diseases and how to prescribe and provide contact lenses. 

Primary Responsibilities

An Optometrist is the person a client spends the most time with at an eye appointment. They give the exam and provide the eye prescription.

Their responsibilities include but are not limited to:

  • Performing vision exams and eye health screenings
  • Diagnosing and treating vision problems eye disorders and diseases
  • Writing prescriptions for eyeglasses and contact lenses
  • Prescribing any additional treatments
  • Counsel patients on their treatment options based on their visual needs

Opticians and Optometrists are crucial in providing quality eye care. Opticians focus on fitting and adjusting eyewear, while optometrists handle comprehensive eye exams and treat eye conditions. Understanding the differences between these two professions can help you make informed decisions about your eye care and ensure you receive the appropriate services for your needs.