What is an Optometrist?
We invite you
to call to have your questions answered or to make an appointment: 480-981-6111.
Many people get ophthalmology and optometry confused because both are
involved with eye care and the spelling of the two names are so
similar. However, there are several distinctions between
the two that may be of interest to you.
The Doctor of Optometry degree requires the completion of a 4-year
program at an accredited optometry school, preceded by at least 3
years of preoptometric study at an accredited college or university.
Most optometry students hold a bachelor’s or higher degree.
Optometry programs include classroom and laboratory study of health
and visual sciences, as well as clinical training in the diagnosis
and treatment of eye disorders. Courses in pharmacology, optics, vision
science, biochemistry, and systemic disease are included.
While optometrists are commonly referred to as "eye doctors",
an optometrist is not the same as a medical doctor or eye surgeon.
An optometrist's education does not include medical school and they
are not trained in surgical procedures. Organized optometry has defined
optometrists as a "primary
eye care providers" and "doctors of optometry."
Optometrists examine people’s eyes to diagnose
vision problems and eye diseases, and they test patients’ visual
acuity, depth and color perception, and ability to focus and coordinate
the eyes. Optometrists prescribe eyeglasses and contact lenses and
provide vision therapy and low-vision rehabilitation. Optometrists
analyze test results and develop a treatment plan. Optometrists often
provide preoperative and postoperative care to cataract patients,
as well as to patients who have had laser vision correction or other
eye surgery. They also diagnose conditions caused by systemic diseases
such as diabetes and high blood pressure, referring patients to other
health practitioners as needed.
Most optometrists are in general practice. Some specialize in work
with the elderly, children, or partially sighted persons who need
specialized visual devices. Others develop and implement ways to protect
workers’ eyes from on-the-job strain or injury. Some specialize
in contact lenses, sports vision, or vision therapy. A few teach optometry,
perform research, or consult.
As a result of recent state-by-state lobby-directed legislative
efforts, organized optometry has recently expanded the scope of its practice
through various state optometry boards, including those in Arizona, to
where optometrists are now allowed to prescribe and administer diagnostic
and therapeutic pharmaceutical agents.
Because optometry training in
medical, pharmaceutical and ocular subjects is not as extensive, averaging
approximately one year, optometrists typically refer patients to ophtalmologists
to address eye disorders, surgical requirements or health problems. These
two professions often work together to provide the best possible eye
care for patients.
If you would like further information, please call our office at:
480-981-6111
The Best Possible Eye Care
The eye surgeons of East Valley Ophthalmology perform the full
scope of advanced technology diagnostic testing and treatment,
as well as taking the time necessary to provide each patient with information needed to understand their condition and to achieve the best possible outcomes. If you or a
family member or friend have not had a recent eye examination,
please take a moment to Request an Appointment.
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