What is an Ophthalmologist?

An Ophthalmologist is a MD (a medical doctor qualified to perform surgery and prescribe drugs) with specialized training (eyeMD). After graduating from college, an Ophthalmologist attends four years of Medical School, one year of Internship, and completes a series of National Exams (analogous to the Bar in Law). He/She is then fully qualified to obtain State Medical Licenses, and Federal and State licenses to prescribe medications, and therefore, is qualified to practice General Medicine. After an additional three years of training in Ophthalmology, at an approved Residency Program, an Ophthalmologist is born.

Many, but not all, Ophthalmologists are also "Board Certified" by the American Board of Ophthalmology. One year after entering clinical practice, a killer written exam is taken, and after two years of clinical practice, a terrifying oral examination is taken.

By selecting a Board Certified Ophthalmologist, you have just selected a physician with 14 years of higher education, and a minimum of 6 years of practice as a physician, with 5 of those years specializing in medical and surgical diseases of the eye. Board Certified Ophthalmologists have achieved the highest level of certification available, and they are the most qualified practitioners to trust with the health of your eyes. They are also qualified to prescribe glasses and contacts, although some choose not to do so.

Optometrists and Opticians are NOT physicians. They cannot perform surgery. Certain optometrists can use certain medications under very limited circumstances, after they have received training under an Ophthalmologist.

This page last updated 06/14/1999