subject: The Difference Of An Optometrist And An Ophthalmologist [print this page] Optometrist and ophthalmologist are both eye doctors. They just differ in specializations concerning eye troubles. Optometrists need to pass a Bachelor"s Degree in Science and then take another four years of post graduate studies focusing on Optometry. Some of the main concerns of optometrists are eyeglasses prescriptions for men and women, vision examination, vision therapy, low vision care and pre-operative as well as post-operative care.
Ophthalmologists on the other hand need a year of internship plus a minimum of three years hospital-based residency. This is required on top of the Bachelor"s Degree and four more years of post-graduate studies. Ophthalmologists are the only eye doctor that have license to do eye surgery. This specialization for an eye doctor is similar to an oral surgeon in the line of dentistry.
If you only need an eye exam, it would be up to your preference whether you will approach an optometrist or an ophthalmologist. For minor eye problems such as glaucoma and dry eyes, the optometrist can handle such cases. As for the major ones, you better seek the expertise of an ophthalmologist to be able to cure your complex eye disorder.
Sometimes, co-management is preferred by doctors and patients alike. If you are already handled by an optometrist in Indianapolis, and a complex problem such as an eye cataract was diagnosed, your optometrist can refer you to an ophthalmologist for the removal of the cataract. After the surgery, you can then be referred back to your optometrist for post-operative eye care.
If you have an insurance policy, call your insurance company and ask them if eye care is part of your coverage. Usually, your insurance company will have a list of optometrist Indianapolis IN has which you can go to for check-up. It is a good idea to check first with your insurance company regarding your coverage so you can allocate a budget for your eye care.
If want to find reliable optometrists in Indianapolis for your or for someone you know, check the list over the internet, There are various websites you can get this data from. You can even view the feedbacks of the past clients for your reference.
