It can be difficult remembering the difference between an optometrist and optician. Both words start the same way, because they both deal with eyes and vision, so it's no wonder they are easily confused. While both professions help people with eye problems, they each do it in their own way. Optometrists are doctors. To become an optometrist in the US or Canada, one must attend 4 years of undergraduate work, pass an admissions exam, take 4 more years of postgraduate work for their Doctor in Optometry, pass another test, and then do a residency for further specialization. When you go in to see if your eyes are working correctly, you are going to an optometrist. They are certified to test and diagnose eye problems. They may also be trained in performing corrective eye surgery. Opticians are more technicians than doctors. They are the ones in charge of taking a prescription from an optometrist, and using it to create lenses and glasses for the patient. Becoming an optician in Vancouver or other parts of Canada requires 2 years formal training and an exam, whereas in the states, formal training can sometimes be completed in as little as 1 year, and may be replaced by an apprenticeship. Optometrists and opticians operate on different ends of the eyecare spectrum. Without optometrists, opticians wouldn't know what to make and dispense. Without opticians, optometrists wouldn't have anybody to actually dispense the prescriptions they write. The two professions work together in order to benefit the eyesight of people everywhere. About The Author: Leo Franken Optical Consultants Inc. took over his family’s, Montreal based, optical business. He is a wealth of information and has a keen eye to help you find the perfect frame to compliment your features. Becoming an optician in Vancouver or other parts of Canada requires 2 years formal training and an exam, whereas in the states, formal training can sometimes be completed in as little as 1 year, and may be replaced by an apprenticeship. (www.spectacleshop.ca)
Related Articles -
Opticians, Vancouver,
|