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Selecting an eye doctor is just as important as choosing a physician. Your eyes can provide valuable insight into your overall health, and they play a vital role in everyday life.

Below, the eye care experts at Kato & Shoji Optometrists in Honolulu, HI, describe the various factors and characteristics patients should consider when picking an eye doctor:

Choosing an Eye Doctor

The majority of eye care professionals can be categorized into two separate groups: ophthalmologists and optometrists. An optometrist can perform routine eye exams, treat certain eye diseases, and prescribe medication. An ophthalmologist treats a full range of eye diseases, prescribes medication, and performs eye surgeries.

Which Is Right for You?

optometristWhen selecting an eye doctor, it’s important to consider the care you require. If you are due for a routine eye exam, either an optometrist or ophthalmologist will do. However, if you suffer from a specific eye disease, you should visit an ophthalmologist to determine a proper treatment plan. When it comes to glasses and contact lens prescriptions, optometrists are generally considered the go-to professional.

Additional Considerations

When researching an eye doctor, examine their credentials. Most optometrists and ophthalmologists will provide licenses and certificates upon request. When in doubt, you can confirm credentials by inquiring with your local state board of optometry or ophthalmology.

An eye doctor’s experience should also play a role in the equation. Ask whether they take part in ongoing training and education courses and find out how many patients they have treated. You may also request testimonials from past and current patients to better understand the level of care you should expect from the doctor.

Whether you are due for a routine eye exam or considering LASIK surgery, you can depend on the eye care professionals at Kato & Shoji Optometrists to provide you with the personalized care and treatments you need to enjoy quality vision. Stop by the website or call (808) 735-8080 to schedule an appointment.

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