Optometrist - Mesa, Arizona.

We invite you to make an appointment and learn more: 480-981-6111.

Many people get ophthalmology and optometry confused because both involve eye care specialists and the spelling of the two names are similar. However, there are several distinctions between the two that may be of interest to you.

The Doctor of Optometry degree requires the completion of a 4-year program at an accredited optometry school, preceded by at least 3 years of pre-optometric study at an accredited college, or university. Most optometry students hold a bachelor's or higher degree. Optometry programs include classroom and laboratory study of health and visual sciences, as well as clinical training in the diagnosis and treatment of eye disorders. Courses in pharmacology, optics, vision science, biochemistry, and systemic disease are included.

While optometrists are commonly referred to as "eye doctors", an optometrist is not the same as a medical doctor or eye surgeon. An optometrist's education does not include medical school and they are not trained in surgical procedures. Organized optometry has defined optometrists as a "primary eye care providers" and "doctors of optometry."

Optometrists examine people's eyes to diagnose vision problems and eye diseases, and they test patients' visual acuity, depth and color perception, and ability to focus and coordinate the eyes. Optometrists prescribe eyeglasses and contact lenses and provide vision therapy and low-vision rehabilitation. Optometrists analyze test results and develop a treatment plan. Optometrists often provide preoperative and postoperative care to cataract patients, as well as to patients who have had laser vision correction, or other eye surgery. They also diagnose conditions caused by systemic diseases such as diabetes and high blood pressure, referring patients to other health practitioners as needed.

Most optometrists are in general practice, either independently or as part of a vision center or eye institute. Some specialize in work with the elderly, children, or partially sighted persons who need specialized visual devices. Others develop and implement ways to protect workers' eyes from on-the-job strain or injury. Some specialize in contact lenses, sports vision, or vision therapy. A few teach optometry, perform research, or act as eye care consultants to industry.

As a result of recent lobby-directed legislative efforts, organized optometry in Arizona has recently expanded the scope of its practice to where optometrists are allowed to prescribe and administer diagnostic and therapeutic pharmaceutical agents.

Because optometry training in medical, pharmaceutical and ocular subjects is not as extensive as an ophthalmologist, optometrists typically refer patients to ophthalmologists to address specific eye disorders, surgical requirements or health issues requiring a specialist. These two professions often work together to provide the best possible eye care for patients.

Optometrist in Arizona.

The eye specialists of East Valley Ophthalmology perform advanced technology diagnostic testing and treatment, as well as taking the time necessary to provide each patient with information needed to fully understand their condition and to achieve their best possible visual outcome.

If you would like further information, please call our office at:

480-981-6111

East Valley Ophthalmology

Eye Doctors - Mesa, Arizona

If you or a family member or friend have not had a recent routine eye examination, have a specific eye condition that needs addressing, or are looking for an eye specialist or professional eye consultant please take a moment to Request an Appointment.