8. Ophthalmologists
are medical doctors that specialize in eye care.
They must complete four years of premedical
school; plus four years of medical school;
complete a one-year internship; and a three-
year residency in ophthalmology. They detect
and treat eye diseases, prescribe drugs and
perform eye surgery. They also prescribe
eyeglasses or contact lenses.
9. Optometrists
must complete four years of
undergraduate school, plus four years of
graduate training in a school of
optometry. They receive a doctorate of
optometry. They can prescribe eyeglasses
or contact lenses. They can detect
diseases, but they are not medical
doctors. Some Optometrists have special
training in fitting low-vision aids; they
are called low-vision specialists.
10. Opticians
have a two-year technical degree.
They interpret prescriptions and fit
eyeglasses. They can adjust repair
and reproduce previously ordered
contacts, eyeglasses and frames.
They cannot examine or test your
eyes.
