Meet Your Optometrist

Optometrists are trained to examine, diagnose, and treat eye diseases. They perform approximately 80 per cent of all primary vision and eye health examinations in Canada. Optometrists are your primary source for your vision, eye health, and eyewear needs. 

You do not need a referral to see an optometrist. However, doctors of optometry routinely work with other health care professions when appropriate, such as family doctors and eye surgeons/ophthalmologists. 

Good vision depends on good eye health and overall health. Annual eye exams can ensure that your optometrist detects signs of eye disease and early warning signs of diabetes, high blood pressure and tumours at the earliest stages. Prevention is your best health investment.

Ophthalmologists

Ophthalmologists are medical doctors who specialize in treating eye diseases and performing complex eye surgeries. Optometrists and ophthalmologists work together in a continuum of care. If you need treatment from an ophthalmologist—such as cataract surgery—you may require a referral to an ophthalmologist from an optometrist or your family doctor. Optometrists can provide this referral and continue to support your ongoing eye care as needed.

Opticians

Opticians are health care professionals who are trained to fabricate and fit vision aids. Some are licenced to provide sight tests, but they do not assess, diagnose, or treat eye conditions. A prescription should always be obtained through a complete eye examination from an optometrist to ensure that your prescription is accurate and your overall eye health has been assessed.