Frequently Asked Questions
..................................................................................
'Family' eye doctors vs. 'medical' eye doctors:
General:
Answers:
What is the difference between an optometrist and an ophthalmologist?:
Optometrists (ODs) are Doctors of Optometry with specialized training in four basic areas - prescription of the eye, health/diseases of the eye, eye muscle coordination/focusing of the eye, and perception of vision (such as color vision and depth perception). Ophthalmologists (MDs) are physicians who performed an additional two year residency in eye disease and surgery. Ophthalmolgists are best trained as eye surgeons, and have received lesser amounts of training in prescription techniques. Most independent organizations regard optometrists as the 'family' eye doctor who is best trained for PRIMARY eye care. This would include This would include prescribing and providing contact lenses and eyeglasses, disease evaluation (such as cataracts and macular degeneration), and treatment of ocular disease (such as 'pink eye' and glaucoma). Ophthalmologists can also treat eye disease but are best utilized for surgery of the eye. Optometrists typically refer to board certified eye surgeons who specialize in specific surgeries. Optometrists frequently co-manage their patients while recovering from a medical procedure performed by an MD.
What is the Summit Eyecare Network?:
The Summit Eyecare Network is an Independent Professional Association of private practice optometrists throughout Ohio. These doctors work together to ensure that the network provides the best eye care possible to all patients, and that their profession remains strong and consistent. Summit Eyecare Network is a proud member of The National EyePA Coalition
|
