Ophthalmologists, optometrists and opticians all provide eye care services. They also prescribe eyeglasses and contact lenses.
Ophthalmologists can prescribe drugs and perform surgery.
They are trained to diagnose eye abnormalities and prescribe, supply, and adjust eyeglasses and contact lenses. In most states optometrists can use drugs to diagnose eye disorders. An optometrist may refer patients to an ophthalmologist or other medical specialist in cases requiring medication or surgery. They cannot examine or test the eyes, or prescribe glasses or drugs.