An ophthalmologist, an Eye M.D., is a medical doctor (M.D.) or doctor of osteopathy (D.O.), who specializes in the medical and surgical treatment of eye diseases or other conditions. Ophthalmologists also often provide routine vision care services such as prescribing eyeglasses and contact lenses. The training required to become an ophthalmologist includes at least four years of medical school (after undergraduate college); a one-year internship in general medicine, usually at a hospital; and a three-year residency in ophthalmology at an accredited teaching program. Many ophthalmologists choose to complete one or two additional years of training in a fellowship, concentrating on a particular aspect of medical or surgical eye care. Learn more about your Eye Care Team by clicking here.

You may have heard of other eye care professionals, such as optometrists and opticians. They are trained and authorized to provide certain aspects of vision care, but they are not medical doctors. Optometrists generally provide routine vision care services, prescribe eyeglasses and fit contact lenses. Optometrists may not perform any form of surgery. Opticians dispense eyeglasses, but do not perform eye exams.

Board certification means that an ophthalmologist, an Eye M.D., has taken and passed z rigorous examination, which covers all aspects of medical and surgical eye care. These examinations are voluntary. An ophthalmologist does not have to be board-certified to practice. The American Board of Ophthalmology (ABO) is the main certifying body for ophthalmologists in the United States. Medical specialty boards - including the ABO - are accredited by an "umbrella" organization that sets standards for certifying physicians.

A general ophthalmologist provides comprehensive eye care. While all ophthalmologists specialize in treatment of eyes, some choose to concentrate in a more specific area. This is usually after completing a fellowship. Some subspecialties focus on treatment of a particular disease, such as glaucoma. Others may specialize in a specific part of the eye like the retina or the cornea, or in a particular field such as pediatric care.