An ophthalmologist is a physician (M.D.) who specializes in the
diagnosis and treatment , including surgery, of all eye disorders. They
have completed four years of medical school where they studied and
trained in all aspects of medicine and then completed an internship
and residency program lasting at least another four years. The
ophthalmologist can then choose to pursue further training in a
particular area of the eye such as retina, cornea, or glaucoma.

Both Dr. Greenspan and Dr. Segal are specialists who are qualified to
perform eye surgery, diagnose and treat any eye disease, prescribe
medication, and determine the need for corrective lens (glasses and
contact lenses) through a comprehensive eye examination.
Furthermore, they are licensed by several state regulatory boards to
practice medicine and surgery. The ophthalmologist represents the
best trained provider of eye care a patient can find.

What is an Optometrist?

While there are other eye care providers, they are not medical doctors. An optometrist
(O.D.), though trained to examine and diagnose eye disorders as well as to provide
eyewear when appropriate, does not perform surgery, and in many states does not
prescribe medication. They do however perform valuable services and oftentimes work in
close conjunction with an ophthalmologist.

What is an Optician?

An optician, though trained to dispense and adjust eyeglasses and contact lenses, does
not determine the need for corrective lenses. The optician is a person who has trained in
the skills necessary to grind and shape glass and plastic materials to the optical powers
as prescribed by an ophthalmologist or optometrist. Education consists of trade school
and apprentiships. An optician many hold various certifications and licenses, which vary
by state and country of practice. An optician is also the person who operates a facility
which dispenses eyeglasses and other accessories , and may, in some states and
countries, also dispense contact lenses as prescribed by a doctor.

Your eyesight is irreplaceable. Many of the normal daily activities we take for granted-
working, driving a car, reading all depend on the health of our eyes. Eye disease which
goes undetected can lead to unnecessary impairment of sight. It is the goal of your
ophthalmologist to protect and maintain your eyesight. While there are other
professionals who provide certain elements of eye care, it is only the ophthalmologist
who has the unique medical training and experience to provide complete and total eye
care.