We often take our eyesight for granted, but maintaining the health of our eyes is incredibly important. Our sight greatly impacts how we are able to perceive and interact with the world on a daily basis, so making an effort to reduce as many barriers as possible is essential. By booking regular appointments at eye clinics, such as optiko.ca, we can be certain that preventative measures are being taken while also continuing to feel confident in our prescriptions and eyewear.
The anatomy of the eye is incredibly complex. That’s why there are so many different branches within ophthalmology. Just like any other medical field, those who choose to dedicate their lives to the discipline can elect to study a particular stream. This allows professionals to specialize in various skills, thus ensuring that you have someone to turn to for any eye-related concern. Two such professions are optometrists and opticians. But what exactly is the difference between the two? Let’s explore how these roles vary.
Optometrists
When it comes to vision care professionals, optometrists may be the individuals you are most familiar with. An optometrist is your primary eye care provider and is trained to examine, diagnose, treat, and prevent diseases and disorders of the eyes and visual system. They should be your first choice when turning to someone for eye care because they specialize in every aspect of eye health.
In order to become an optometrist, at least six years of higher education are required in Canada. This includes a minimum of two years in an undergraduate program before you are eligible to apply for the four-year Optometry program. Currently, there are only two schools of optometry in Canada, so the acceptance rate is incredibly competitive. Once the program has been successfully completed, you obtain a Doctor of Optometry degree.
Optometrists perform approximately 80% of all primary vision and eye health exams in Canada. The tasks they take on during such examinations can include:
- Internal and external eye health evaluations
- Pupil reflex testing
- Pressure testing
- Depth perception testing
- Colour vision testing
Optometrists are generally your first point of contact when it comes to any questions or concerns you may have regarding your eyes and eyesight. When it comes to taking measures to prevent or assist problems, it will be your optometrist who sets you on the right path. They will assist you with such things as:
- Prescribing glasses and contact lenses
- Medical treatment (this could be as simple as recommending you to use eye drops)
- Correcting or improving vision
- Low vision therapy
- Managing tear ducts (ensuring they’re not too dry or plugged)
- Removing foreign bodies from your eyes
Opticians
An optician is likely who you will speak with following your initial eye exam. They are vision care technicians who specialize in fitting frames and lenses for your glasses and teach you how to use contact lenses. While they do not diagnose or treat eye-related issues, they help you in finding solutions that work for you and play a key role in ensuring your vision needs are being identified and corrected.
To become an optician, you must successfully complete an Opticianry Program. This program can take one to three years to complete, depending on whether you are a part-time or full-time student. Following your graduation, you can then take the NACOR National Optical Sciences Examination. Upon passing, you must then register with your Provincial Regulatory Agency, which is often known as a College of Opticians.
Working together, optometrists and opticians ensure that you are leaving their clinic with all the equipment and information you need to be able to approach each day with clarity and confidence.