Ask The Optician...What is an Optician?

WHAT IS AN OPTICIAN?                              
How are they different than Optometrists and Ophthalmologists?                      
Your Optical questions answered by
Joel C. Wolf- Licensed Optician and Owner of Village Opticians

Opticians, optometrists and ophthalmologists all provide eye care services. Opticians manufacture and dispense vision correcting lenses. Optometrists and ophthalmologists examine eyes and provide you with a prescription for vision correcting lenses. 
OPTICIAN:
An optician makes, verifies, measures and fits lenses, frames and contact lenses. The opticians' functions include analyzing and interpreting your prescription; determining which lens type best fits your needs; preparing (measuring and grinding) your lenses and assembling your eye wear, the verification of the finished products; and the replacement, repair and reproduction of previously prepared lenses, frames and other specially fabricated ophthalmic devices. Opticians in the state of NJ are certified by a state board of examiners and licensed by a state regulatory board. 
OPTOMETRIST: 
Optometrists are independent primary health care providers who specialize in the examination, diagnosis, and treatment of diseases and disorders of the eye and associated structures as well as the diagnosis of related systemic conditions. Optometrists prescribe and treat glaucoma, eye infections and eye inflammations. Optometrists do not perform surgery.  An optometrist has completed four years of college premedical education and four years of graduate education at an accredited College of Optometry, earning a Doctorate in Optometry. Optometrists are certified by a national board of examiners and licensed by a state regulatory board. 
Ophthalmologist: 
The Ophthalmologist has a degree Doctor of Medicine (M.D.) and is a primary and secondary, medical/surgical eye care provider. This Ophthalmologist has completed four years of college, four years of medical school and four years of residency and internships relating to the diagnosis and treatment, including surgery, of diseases of the eye.  Ophthalmologists may perform intricate surgical procedures including cataracts removal and lens implant, corneal transplant, glaucoma surgery and various laser procedures.                                
Hopefully, I've clarified what makes each one of your eye care professionals unique and necessary in the care of your eyesight and your health. Please stop by to discuss and questions or concerns you may have relating to your eyesight and your eyeglasses.