Why do we need optometrists when there are ophthalmologists?

Ophthalmologists are medical doctors who have gone to medical school and specialize in the medical and surgical treatment of eye disease. Optometrists, on the other hand, are trained to diagnose vision problems and prescribe corrective lenses.

Some ophthalmologists also do optometric work, such as prescribing glasses and contact lenses, but not all of them do. In most cases, if you have a complex eye problem that requires surgery or other intensive treatment, you'll be referred to an ophthalmologist. If you just need a prescription for glasses or contacts, you can usually go to an optometrist.