23/08/2026
Optometrist v Ophthalmologist
What is the difference? 🧐
🤓 Optometrist:
Non-medical practitioner who has undergone 4 years of training in optometry.
Role:
- Examine and test eyes for poor vision and prescribing glasses / contact lenses for correction.
- Identify eye diseases and refer to an Ophthalmologist
- Crucial role in primary eye care and eye programmes
🩺 Ophthalmologist:
Physician who specializes in the medical and surgical care of the eyes.
Ophthalmologists have 5 - 6 years of training to be a medical doctor, internships as well as an additional 4 years to specialize / of specialization in Ophthalmology.
Role:
Prevention, diagnosis, medical and surgical treatment of eye diseases.
