The vision industry is one of the most diverse branches of the healthcare system. Individuals who are considering a career in eye care should carefully consider their options before selecting a specialty.

1. Eye Care Career
Options
A comparison of Ophthalmology, Optometry, and Opticianry

2. Branches of the Vision
Industry
• Medical Care
1. Ophthalmology
2. Optometry
3. Technician
4. Assistant
• Retail Sales
1. Optician
2. Optical Assistant

3. Ophthalmologist
• Licensed to provide comprehensive medical care
• Can perform surgery
• Must complete 8 years of college
• Required to complete medical residency
• Specialized licensing exams
• Most challenging branch of eye care

4. Optometrist
• Licensed to provide basic medical care
• Cannot perform surgery
• Must complete 8 years of college
• Residency not required
• Specialized licensing exams
• Less intense then ophthalmology

5. Optician
• Only regulated in approximately 24 states
• Helps customers select and fit eyewear
• Makes frame adjustments
• Performs lens customizations
• Formal or informal education and training depends
on state regulations
• National licensing exam available

6. Technicians and Assistants
• Perform routine client care responsibilities
• Administer pre-exam tests
• Help advanced personnel manage clients
• May work in either the medical or the retail side
• Typically requires little education or experience
• Good option if deciding on advanced field

7. Local Regulations
• Nearly universal for ophthalmologists and
optometrists
• Highly variable for opticians
• Check with employer
• Verify with state regulators
• Become active in industry organizations

8. Earning Potential
• Ophthalmology salary is highest
• Optometry salary can be excellent
• Optician salary depends on many factors
• Assistant and technician salary the lowest