\u201cDo I need to see an optician, optometrist, orthoptist or ophthalmologist?\u201d<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Choosing the right specialist depends on your specific eye care needs.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
We asked Ophthalmologist Dr. Annick Fournier to break down each role to help you see the difference (and we promise you that\u2019s our one and only eye-rolling pun for this article!).<\/p>\n\n\n\n
\u201cDo you prefer bifocals or progressives?\u201d Opticians guide you on choosing your glasses and contact lenses. Following the prescription from the optometrist or ophthalmologist, the optician will advise you on the type of lenses and frames that will best suit your comfort, preferences and budget.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
\u201cPlease read the chart, starting at the top.\u201d If you\u2019ve ever had an eye exam, you\u2019re probably familiar with the classic eye chart. Eye exams are administered by optometrists, who also provide plenty of other vision care services, including screening for eye diseases and treatment of minor eye conditions. Depending on your needs, they will also prescribe corrective lenses.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
\u201cAre you experiencing any double or blurred vision?\u201d These professionals assess, re-educate and rehabilitate binocular visual function, which is the ability to use both eyes together to create a single image. Orthoptists work closely with ophthalmologists to manage and treat eye diseases.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
\u201cHave you had any previous eye surgeries or treatments?\u201d Ophthalmologists like Dr. Fournier evaluate patients affected by eye diseases and provide medical and surgical care. In this video, Dr. Fournier shares more about her role at The Ottawa Hospital:<\/p>\n\n\n\n