What is the difference between an optometrist, ophthalmologist, and an optician?

Doctors of optometry (i.e. OD’s) are independent primary health care providers who examine, diagnose, treat (if TPA certified) and manage diseases and disorders of the visual system, the eye and associated structures. Optometrists are highly educated and trained to diagnose disease and pathological conditions manifested in the human eye, such as glaucoma and diabetic retinopathy. An ophthalmologist is a physician who specializes in diagnosing and treating eye diseases. They also perform eye surgery and may prescribe corrective lenses. An optician fills prescription orders written by optometrists and ophthalmologists.  more