Both optometrists and ophthalmologists are considered Eye Experts in Appleton WI. Optometrists complete four years of education and training after their undergraduate degree, qualifying them to have the title of an eye doctor. However, they are not medical doctors. Ophthalmologists complete eight years of medical school after graduating from college, and they also are required to complete a residency to become specialists in medical eye care.
A Peaceful Co-Existence
Optometrists and ophthalmologists have generally co-existed peacefully in the eyecare realm. Many people choose optometrists for eye exams and vision testing knowing they will be referred to an ophthalmologist for care if the optometrist finds evidence of an eye disease or disorder requiring medical attention. Others always go to the medical Eye Experts in Appleton WI for their exams because there is a history of glaucoma or other eye diseases in the family.
Optometrists for Laser Surgery?
One area where disagreement has developed is whether optometrists should be qualified to perform laser eye surgery for vision correction. For now, only a very limited number of states have passed legislation approving this. Historically, only ophthalmologists such as James E. Memmen, MD at Green Apple Eye Care have been allowed by law to perform any kind of eye surgery. That is still the case in Wisconsin. Get more information on this particular medical eye doctor at the website.
As of late 2017, a large majority of optometrists in states that allow them to do any type of eye surgery choose not to offer the service. Legislators were attempting to improve access to certain types of care previously only available from medical doctors, but it appears optometrists are not entirely on board with this development.
Ophthalmologists for Routine Care
Many patients prefer going to an ophthalmologist for their routine eye care and vision testing, so they don’t need to switch doctors if any serious problems do occur. If they ever need cataract surgery or glaucoma treatment, for instance, they will already be patients at a clinic where a medical doctor provides the care. They’ve established a doctor-patient relationship with this individual and don’t have to start over with a specialist.
