They may not be actively practicing, but optometrists still hold the rank of doctor and are still referred to as “Dr.” This applies to anyone with a doctorate, as well as doctors such as dentists, chiropractors, military doctors, veterinarians, optometrists, osteopaths, and podiatrists. The rule is “Dr.” or “Never both at the same time.” Ophthalmologists (MD) are medical doctors who specialize in eye care. To become an ophthalmologist, one must complete four years of college, four years of medical school, and four to five years of postgraduate training, which may include residencies, internships, and scholarships. If a patient decides to proceed with cataract surgery after consulting with an ophthalmologist, the ophthalmologist and optometrist typically share the preoperative and postoperative care of the patient in order to meet all of their eye care needs as efficiently as possible.
Some optometrists receive additional clinical training or specialize in a particular area after completing their optometry studies. Like ophthalmologists, optometrists can specialize in various areas such as low vision care, vision therapy, and dry eye (or ocular surface disease). If you need an eye exam and want to discuss your contact lenses, make sure to schedule an appointment with an optometrist. Although they cannot perform surgery, optometrists often play a vital role in the preoperative and postoperative care of surgical patients. Optometrists are highly trained professionals who have earned a Doctor of Optometry (OD) degree. This degree requires four years of college followed by four years of optometry school.
During their studies, optometrists learn about the anatomy and physiology of the eye, optics and refraction, contact lenses, vision therapy, pharmacology, and ocular diseases. Optometrists are qualified to diagnose and treat many common eye diseases such as glaucoma and cataracts. They can also prescribe medications for certain eye conditions. In addition to providing comprehensive eye exams for adults and children alike, optometrists can also provide vision therapy services for those with vision-related learning disabilities or other vision problems. In conclusion, optometrists should be addressed as “Dr.” due to their professional rank. They are highly trained professionals who have earned a Doctor of Optometry (OD) degree.
Optometrists can diagnose and treat many common eye diseases such as glaucoma and cataracts. They can also provide comprehensive eye exams for adults and children alike as well as vision therapy services for those with vision-related learning disabilities or other vision problems.