Pediatric Visual Diagnosis Fact Sheet ™

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OPHTHALMOLOGIST (M.D.)
Performs surgery. Diagnoses and treats eye diseases. Tests for visual acuity and visual field. Prescribes glasses, low vision aids (magnifiers) and medication.

Training:

• 4 years college
• 4 years medical school
• 1 year internship
• 3 years residency

12 years total
(1 additional year for pediatric specialty)

OPTOMETRIST (O.D.)
Prescribes glasses, low vision aids (magnifiers) and teaches patients how to use them. Some may do low vision exams and provide vision training activities. Some states allow diagnosis and prescription.

Training:

• 4 years college
• 3-4 years optometry school

7-8 years total

OPTICIAN
Grinds and fits lenses prescribed by ophthalmologist or optometrist.

Training:

• 1 year of optical courses
• 2 years apprenticeship under certified optician 3 years total

OCULARIST
Designs and fits artificial eyes (prostheses) and scleral shells. Training:

• Requires board certification.
• Candidate takes exam through the National Examining Board of Ocularists. Exam is taken every 6 years for recertification.

*Material Adapted from Insite Manual, Ski Hi Institute

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