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Regular eye exams are essential for maintaining your vision, but many people are baffled when it comes to choosing an eye doctor. There are ophthalmologists and optometrists, and while both can provide for most of your basic eye care needs, there are some key differences. Understanding those differences will help you select the provider that’s right for you.

Ophthalmologist

Education

On top of completing four years of undergraduate school and four years of medical school, ophthalmologists must also complete a one-year internship and at least a three-year residency in a hospital. Once completed, they receive their degree as either a doctor of medicine (MD) or doctor of osteopathic medicine (OD).

Eye Care

Ophthalmologists handle basic vision care needs, such as eye exams and prescribing glasses and contact lenses. In addition to the basics, these eye doctors are trained to detect, treat, and manage a broad spectrum of eye problems, from glaucoma to cataracts to macular degeneration. If surgery is required for proper treatment of a particular problem, an ophthalmologist is trained and licensed to perform the procedure.

Optometrist

Education

An optometrist’s education consists of four years of undergraduate school and four years of post-graduate school specializing in optometry. With the completion of their schooling, they earn degrees as doctors of optometry (OD).

eye doctorEye Care

The level of eye care an optometrist can provide varies, as the licensing requirements are decided at the state level. Most of these eye doctors, however, are capable of performing routine eye exams and providing patients with prescription glasses or contact lenses. They can also diagnose and treat eye issues like dry eyes and infections.  

Which Is Right for You?

Now that you know more about how ophthalmologists and optometrists differ, you can choose the eye doctor that’s best for you. If you have minor vision problems but are otherwise healthy, an optometrist can fulfill your needs. If they detect something more serious, they may refer you to an ophthalmologist for further treatment.

 

Whether you need a routine eye exam or need to update your prescription glasses or contact lenses, the optometrists at Progressive Vision Group are here to help. Their eye care center in High Point, NC, is equipped to handle all your basic vision care needs. Their eye doctors will work with you to ensure you’re always seeing clearly. For an appointment, call (336) 841-2028, and visit them online for more information.

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