There is a lot of misunderstanding about what we in the industry call "The Three O's," also known as opticians, optometrists, and ophthalmologists. Even people familiar with the industry frequently ask me what the difference is.

We hope this post will help you understand and also guide you in choosing the proper professional to go visit for your eye care needs.

VANCOUVER OPTICIANS ARE SIMILAR TO TECHNICIANS

Opticians are similar to technicians. They receive and fill an optical prescription and are your go-to people for lenses and frames. In Vancouver, students take a post-secondary licensing course to learn how to properly fit lenses and take all the necessary and critical measurements. They also learn how to properly adjust frames to fit your face as well as which frames work best on which face shapes.

They are well-versed in progressives versus bifocals, refractive index, anti-glare coatings, transitions, and a slew of other technical terms that are critical to getting the right lens. They are an essential member of your vision care team.

Sometimes an Optician in Vancouver will also offer a sight test or a vision check. This is where the Optician will verify the prescription in your eyes. Sight tests or vision checks should not be confused with an eye examination. An eye exam can only be performed by a licensed Optometrist or an Ophthalmologist and look into the health of the eyes in addition to verifying the prescription.

IN VANCOUVER, OPTOMETRISTS ARE LIKE THE FAMILY DOCTOR FOR YOUR EYES

Optometrists in Vancouver are similar to family doctors but for the eyes. Optometrists see patients for routine eye examinations to check their vision and the health of the eyes. There are conditions in your eyes that can occur silently and without symptoms. It is recommended for you to see an Optometrist every 1-2 years even if you have not noticed a vision change.

Optometrists in Canada have to complete a minimum of three years of undergraduate education followed by a four-year Doctor of Optometry program offered by the University of Waterloo or the University of Montreal. They can also study abroad overseas or in the United States and go through a similarly thorough Doctor of Optometry program.

In addition to routine eye examinations, your local Vancouver optometrist is also the place to go if you have a problem with your eyes. It could be a sudden vision problem, a red gooey eye, scratched eyes, or something in your eye that won't come out. These visits have coverage through your medical services plan (MSP) and at Evergreen Optometry Clinic we do not charge you any extra fees on top of MSP coverage.*

Optometrists also have a thorough understanding of the glasses side of things so don’t be afraid to ask your optometrist about lenses, frames, and contact lenses. Your optometrist will also be happy to talk to you about laser vision correction questions you may have.

A REFERRAL IS REQUIRED TO SEE AN OPHTHALMOLOGIST IN VANCOUVER

Sometimes your routine eye exam reveals a complex problem that requires further management or surgery. This is where ophthalmologists come in; they are the eye specialists. Ophthalmologists have a medical degree and an additional 3-5 of residency and fellowship.

Your optometrist will work closely with ophthalmologists to make sure that you are being provided the most optimal care for your eyes. For example, if you have cataracts that need to be removed your optometrist will refer you to an ophthalmologist in Vancouver who is specialized in cataract surgery.

You are often not able to see an ophthalmologist directly and will require a referral from an optometrist or a family doctor.

SO WHO SHOULD YOU SEE FIRST?

Optician: If you already have a prescription from an optometrist/ophthalmologist and want to get glasses/contacts.

Optometrist: For routine eye exams, problems with your eyes, contact lens fittings, or if you feel you need a referral to an Ophthalmologist.

Ophthalmologist: If you were referred to by your optometrist or family doctor.


*Evergreen Optometry reserves the right to make amendments to this clinic policy