Ophthalmologist vs. Optometrist

[lonewolf1513]

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I don't know what is the difference between the two. So i thought this would be the best forum to ask. Thanks for the input. I am in no way implying superiority of one over the other, lifestyle, etc... So lets not talk about that. I just want to know scope of practice difference.

 

[GDR]

In general, Ophthalmology = surgery, Optometry = no surgery. The scope of practice is very similar with this exception. (In ophthalmology you can specialize in Glaucoma, Retinas, Corneas, etc.; in Optometry you can specialize in low vision, contacts, vision therapy, etc.)

The specialties in Optometry can also readily overlap with what is already included with general practice.

 

[flairy]

"In general, Ophthalmology = surgery, Optometry = no surgery. "

That is not entirely true. Optometrists can do minor surgeries and in the state of OK can do Lasik.

During an interview I had, I was asked the difference and I always thought it was the way you quoted it. But the person who interviewed me told me I was wrong. The field is changing and optometrists are beginning to be able to do what ophthalmologists can do.

Also Ophthalmologists are medical healthcare professionals because they have to go to medical school while optometrists only have to go to 4 year optometry professional school.

They both can specialize in different things, like Retina and Glaucoma.

Hope that helps!

 

[JMU07]

"In general, Ophthalmology = surgery, Optometry = no surgery. "

That is not entirely true. Optometrists can do minor surgeries and in the state of OK can do Lasik.

During an interview I had, I was asked the difference and I always thought it was the way you quoted it. But the person who interviewed me told me I was wrong. The field is changing and optometrists are beginning to be able to do what ophthalmologists can do.

Also Ophthalmologists are medical healthcare professionals because they have to go to medical school while optometrists only have to go to 4 year optometry professional school.

They both can specialize in different things, like Retina and Glaucoma.

Hope that helps!

Well, yes, minor surgeries like removing FB's or draining a chalazion but we can't do the things that most people associate with ophthalmologists like cataract surgery, fixing an RD, etc.

lonewolf - optometry's scope of practice depends on the state. Oklahoma will allow you to do laser surgery, as was mentioned already, and a few states allow injectables. Some states don't even allow OD's to treat glaucoma or prescribe orals. It depends on where you go. Yes, ophthalmology has a wider scope but they spend more time in school.

 

[lonewolf1513]

Thank you 🙂