Ophthalmology is a branch of medicine specializing in the anatomy, function, and diseases of the eye.   An Eye MD is an ophthalmologist -  a doctor of medicine or osteopathy – who specializes in eye health and vision care.  Eye MDs are trained to provide the full spectrum of eye care, from prescribing eyeglasses and contact lenses to complex and delicate eye surgery. 

In addition to four years of medical school and one year of internship, every eye MD spends a minimum of three years in a supervised residency training in all aspects of eye care including surgical treatment of eye conditions and diseases.  Often an Eye MD spends an additional one to two years training in a subspecialty, such as glaucoma or pediatric ophthalmology.

An optometrist is a health service provider how is involved primarily with refractive problems.  Optometrists are specifically educated and trained by accredited optometry colleges in a four-year course, but do not attend medical school or go through residency training.  IN Michigan, they are licensed by the state to examine the eyes, determine the presence of refractive problems, correct refractive problems with glasses or contact lenses, and to detect and manage glaucoma.

Opticians are professionals who make, verify, deliver, and fit frames and other specially fabricated optical devices and/or contact lenses according to prescription for the intended wearer.  The optician;s functions nclude prescription analysis and interpretation; determination of lens the forms best suited to the wearer's needs; preparation and delivery of workj orders for the grinding of lenses and the fabrication of eyewear; verification of the finished optical products; and adjustment, replacement, repair, and reproduction of previously prepared lenses, frames, and other specailly fabricated optical devices. 

Ophthalmic Technicians help ophthalmologists collect data and measurements to allow the corect diagnosis and treatment of eye diseases and problems.  Their duties often include performing simple eye exams, assisting with eye surgery, and explaning diagnostic and treatment procedures to patients.

 Click here to view the 'Know Your Eye Care Team' Video for more information