What is the difference between an ophthalmologist and an optometrist?

An Ophthalmologist is a Medical Doctor (M.D.) with specialty training after medical school in eye surgery and conditions of the eye. An Optometrist (O.D.) has a professional degree which involves a four year University program which deals with conditions of the eye only. Both MDs and ODs are regulated by professional colleges and have continuing education requirements associated with their respective professions. Both ODs and MDs are qualified to recognize and diagnose all eye conditions.  more

An ophthalmologist is a medical doctor (M.D.) specially trained in the medical and surgical care and treatment of the eyes. Becoming an ophthalmologist can take 12 or more years of advanced education and training, including four years of college, four years of medical school training, and four years of internship and residency training. Some ophthalmologists obtain additional fellowship training after completing their residencies and learn more about one or two specific aspects or elements of the eye. After this training, they may practice as subspecialists. Optometrists (Doctors of Optometry, or O.D.'s) attend four years of college and four years of optometry school, where they are trained to examine the eyes to determine the presence of any eye or vision problems, and deliver treatment options for many conditions. Optometrists prescribe glasses, contact lenses and some medications.

Ophthalmologists are sometimes known as eye surgeons as they concentrate on surgery and treating eye diseases. They are essentially medical doctors that specialize in eyes and perform surgery and prescribe medication as they see fit. Some also undertake the prescription of spectacles, contact lenses and recommend eye exercises, although this is less common. Optometrists will screen the eyes for diseases and refer to ophthalmologists for cataract or glaucoma surgery if necessary. Optometrists concentrate on spectacle and contact lens prescriptions. Some specialize in eye exercises to improve eye muscle conditions.  more