Understanding the Different Eye Care Professionals

If you’ve ever booked an eye appointment or needed glasses, you’ve likely come across the titles Optician, Optometrist, and Ophthalmologist. While they all play vital roles in maintaining eye health, their training, responsibilities, and services differ significantly. At Sherwood Park Eye Centre, we want to help differentiate these roles so you know exactly who does what—and who to see when.

Optician: The Eyewear Expert

Opticians are trained professionals who help fit and dispense eyeglasses and contact lenses based on prescriptions provided by an Optometrist or Ophthalmologist. Opticians typically complete a one- to two-year diploma or associate degree program, and in some regions, may be licensed or certified.

Opticians are able to help with fitting and adjusting glasses or contact lenses, replacing or repairing broken frames, and helping choose eyewear based on lifestyle and prescription.

It is important to note that Opticians do not perform eye exams or diagnose/treat eye conditions.

Optometrist: Your Primary Eye Care Provider

Optometrists are doctors of optometry (ODs) who are trained to examine, diagnose, treat, and manage many common eye conditions and vision problems. They also prescribe corrective lenses and medications for certain eye diseases.

Optometrists complete a four-year optometry program after their undergraduate degree, and some pursue additional residency training in specialties like pediatrics or ocular disease.

Optometrists are the ones you see for your comprehensive eye exams, prescription for glasses or contacts, diagnosis and treatment of conditions like dry eye, eye infections, glaucoma, or allergies, and they also perform pre- and post-operative care for eye surgeries.

At SPEC, our Optometrists are your first point of contact for any vision or eye health concerns.

Ophthalmologist: The Medical Eye Doctor

Ophthalmologists are medical doctors (MDs or DOs) who specialize in eye and vision care, including performing surgery. They can diagnose and treat all eye diseases, prescribe medications, and conduct eye surgeries, such as cataract removal or LASIK.

They complete medical school, followed by a residency in ophthalmology. Many also pursue fellowships in subspecialties like retina, cornea, or pediatric ophthalmology.

Ophthalmologists are the ones you see for eye surgeries (eg. cataracts, glaucoma, retina issues), advanced medical treatments for eye diseases, and complex or severe eye conditions.

Optometrists often work closely with Ophthalmologists to co-manage conditions that require surgical intervention or highly specialized care.

So, Who Should You See?

If you need a routine eye exam, glasses, or treatment for non-surgical eye conditions, an Optometrist is your go-to.

For surgical or complex medical concerns, you may be referred to an Ophthalmologist.

Once you have your prescription, an Optician will help you get the perfect fit for your eyewear.

At SPEC, we collaborate with trusted specialists and support staff to make sure your eye care journey is smooth, thorough, and personalized.