An eye doctor is a term that can refer to three different types of eye care professionals: ophthalmologists, optometrists, and opticians. Heres a brief overview of each:

• Ophthalmologist: An ophthalmologist is a medical or osteopathic doctor who specializes in eye and vision care. They are licensed to practice medicine and surgery and can diagnose and treat all eye diseases, perform eye surgery, and prescribe and fit eyeglasses and contact lenses to correct vision problems. They have completed college and at least eight years of additional medical training.

• Optometrist: An optometrist is a healthcare professional who provides primary vision care ranging from sight testing and correction to the diagnosis, treatment, and management of vision changes. They are not medical doctors but receive a doctor of optometry (OD) degree after completing four years of optometry school, preceded by three or more years of college. They can prescribe and fit eyeglasses and contact lenses to correct vision problems.

• Optician: An optician is a technician trained to design, verify, and fit eyeglass lenses and frames. They are not eye doctors and cannot give eye exams. They fill the prescription given by an optometrist or ophthalmologist and can provide, adjust, and repair glasses, frames, and contact lenses. They get a 1- or 2-year degree, certificate, or diploma.

Its important to note that optometrists and ophthalmologists often work together to provide the best possible treatment for patients. When choosing an eye doctor, its recommended to consider your needs and to ask for recommendations from your doctor, friends, or family.