Choosing An Eye Doctor

Are you searching for a new eye doctor? Have you ever wondered what the difference is between different kinds of eye doctors? Should you go to an optometrist, or do you need an ophthalmologist? Read on as a local Bella Vista CA optometrist clarifies the difference between each one, and offers tips on finding a great fit. 

Ophthalmologist, Optometrist, or Optician?

Ophthalmologists, optometrists, and opticians are all eye care professionals, but they focus on different things (pun fully intended).

Here’s the breakdown:

Optometrist

To become an optometrist—or optometric physician—one must attain both a bachelor’s degree and a Doctor of Optometry (O.D.). Optometrists are not medical doctors, but they can perform vision tests and eye exams. Optometrists are able to screen for both vision issues and health problems, and can prescribe eyewear. They are also licensed to treat certain diseases and eye problems, although the exact specifications vary by state. 

For the vast majority of people, an optometrist will be able to cover all of their needs. If an issue arises, you may be referred to an ophthalmologist. 

Ophthalmologist

Ophthalmologists are medical or osteopathic doctors that focus specifically on eye problems and care. To be licensed as an ophthalmologist, a medical doctor must have completed college and gotten at least eight years of postgraduate medical training. 

Like optometrists, ophthalmologists can diagnose vision problems. They can also prescribe corrective eye wear, and are legally licensed to perform surgical procedures, such as LASIK. 

Some ophthalmologists specialize in specific conditions, such as glaucoma or pediatrics. It isn’t uncommon for them to also take part in research efforts. 

Optician

Opticians deal exclusively with corrective eyewear. They can design and fit glasses and contact lenses. However, they can not write prescriptions or perform vision tests. They also cannot diagnose or treat specific eye problems or perform any surgical procedures. You would go to an optician to choose glasses and frames, or to order contacts.

Many eye care centers have opticians on staff. Others work closely with opticians. However, you can also order glasses and frames online.

Is it better to go to an ophthalmologist or optometrist?

It really depends on your needs. If you just need basic correctional eye wear, an optician will most likely fit the bill. If you know or suspect that you have a more complex issue, you may want to consult an ophthalmologist.

Here’s a quick breakdown: 

• Visit your medical optometrist for primary medical eye care, including vision tests, vision wear, eye medication prescriptions, monitoring and managing eye diseases, or emergency eye care services. 
• Visit an ophthalmologist for interventions like surgical treatments for serious eye diseases, advanced ocular problems, or refractive eye surgery.

If you only need vision correction, and don’t have any medical issues with your eyes, you can choose either an optometrist or ophthalmologist. In many cases, this is a matter of personal preference. 

How Do I Choose A Good Eye Doctor?

Once you know which type of eye doctor is right for you, it’s time to start your search. There are quite a few things to keep in mind. Let’s take a look at some of the key ones.

Insurance

If your eye care costs are covered by your health insurance, your specific plan may very well play a role in determining who you go to. However, many insurance providers allow you to go out of network. Here at Redding Eyecare, we are always happy to help people navigate insurance questions. 

Services

Another thing to keep in mind are the services offered. Are you considering LASIK? If so, you may want to opt for an eye doctor that offers this service. Many people are most comfortable getting the procedure done at a place they are familiar with.

Referrals

Referrals are always a great way to find a good service provider. Consider which of your friends, family members, and co-workers wear glasses or contacts. Ask if they can offer a recommendation. Reading reviews can also be very helpful here.

Credentials

Always look at your doctor’s credentials and experience. Generally, reputable eye doctors will either display their certificates or provide them upon request. You may also want to ask about how much experience your potential eye doctor has.

Look At The Technology Used

The world of vision care has moved forward in leaps and bounds over the past few decades. There are now more options and visionwear choices than ever before, with new tools and products emerging all the time. Look for a clinic that stays up-to-date with the latest technology. This isn’t about following trends: it’s really about ensuring that we can provide the absolute best care possible!

Check Availability

If you’re looking for a hairdresser, low availability is a good sign. It’s probably safe to say that a salon that’s booked for several months out is providing great cuts.

That’s not always the case with an eye care clinic, though. Low availability for a standard vision check isn’t uncommon. However, it’s important to know that if something serious happens and you need to make an emergency visit, you’ll be able to get in quickly.  

Look At Their Online Presence

A great website and social media presence is always a good sign. This will help you get an idea of what the eye care clinic is like, what they offer, what they specialize in, and what to expect. 

With so much of our daily lives centered around the internet these days, a lack of a good online presence may signal that a clinic is stuck in the past. While that isn’t necessarily a sign of a bad doctor, it is worth mentioning that a healthcare provider that is slow to adopt new technologies may not be your best bet. 

What Are The Signs Of A Good Doctor?

Sometimes it can be easy to spot red flags in a service provider: unanswered calls, a dirty office, a curt manner. But what are some of the green flags? 

The biggest ones are excellent service and a great demeanor.

Eye doctors see many people every day. However, those who are truly kind, caring, and passionate about their work will never see their patients as just a name on a board. A good eye doctor will talk to you, and take time to explain any pertinent information thoroughly. That may mean giving detailed information about an eye condition, going over different visionwear options, or even asking about your family medical history. It’s also a great sign when they make the effort to break things down in everyday language, rather than using technical jargon. They’ll also consider your situation and preference when suggesting options, rather than automatically pushing the most expensive options. 

It’s also important to find the right fit for your personality. You want someone that is professional, caring, and thorough. Many people only see their eye doctors once a year. However, those annual appointments will continue for the rest of your life! Ideally, you’ll want to find a place that you feel comfortable staying with, and build a long-term association with them.

Make An Appointment At Your Bella Vista CA Eye Care Center

Are you ready for new contacts or glasses? Has it been a while since you’ve had an eye exam? Please feel free to contact us any time. As your local Bella Vista CA eye care center, we are here to provide you with the best care around!