Doctors of optometry, also known as optometrists, often serve as the primary care provider for eye health. They are state-licensed eye health care professionals who are trained to diagnose and treat diseases and disorders of the eye and visual system. They also:

• Diagnose and treat eye injuries, emergencies, infections, inflammation and allergies
• Diagnose and treat ocular diseases such as glaucoma and cataracts
• Prescribe or provide oral and topical medications, therapy, corrective lenses and optical devices
• Perform eye procedures, both minor and surgical

Doctors of optometry are extremely accessible. Currently, 99% of the U.S. population lives in a county with an optometrist.

An ophthalmologist is a medical doctor who specializes in diagnosis and treatment of eye disease, including surgery of ocular diseases and disorders.

An optician is a specialist in fitting and dispensing eyeglasses and contact lenses based on an eye doctor’s prescription to correct vision problems.