Most eye doctors have been called opticians, optometrists, and ophthalmologists. The similarity is that they all treat the eyes, but there is a huge difference between their training and what they can do under the law.
Opticians
Opticians are trained to take measurements and help people pick out the right eyeglasses for them. They can often make simple repairs and adjustments to glasses. Additionally, some are trained to help people with contact lenses. Almost all opticians have a high school diploma. Some have received specialized training at a community college that can last between one and two years. Others get specialized on-the-job training. Usually, they must be supervised by an optometrist or an ophthalmologist.
Optometrists
Optometrists in Orlando and almost everywhere else have graduated from a four-year college. Then, they continued their training by completing another four years at a school of optometry. Some have also completed residency programs. These professionals can do many different things when it comes to your eyes. They can help you write prescriptions to get your new glasses or contact lenses. They can also help you with simple eye diseases and should be your first stop if you experience an eye injury. They can also help you with vision therapy.
At EYES of Winter Park, we are very proud to have Dr. Francisco José Richardson as our optometrist. He is a graduate of Nova Southeastern University in Ft. Lauderdale, Florida, and served in the United States Army for five years. He has also done training in China and done humanitarian work in Ecuador. He is a proud member of the American Optometric Association, the American Academy of Optometry, Florida Optometric Association, and the Central Florida Society Optometric Physicians. When he is not busy at work, he loves to participate in community activities including the Masons, Lions Club, and Chamber of Commerce.
Ophthalmologists
When an optometrist in Orlando cannot help you, then they will often refer you to an ophthalmologist. These specialists are eye doctors who are also medical doctors. They must spend four years as an undergraduate student and another four years in medical school. Then, they spend at least three years in a hospital setting participating in eye care for a variety of patients. Many ophthalmologists go on to specialize in one or more subtypes of eye care. In order to specialize, they must pass a two-part test given by the American Board of Ophthalmology.
Doctor Richardson hopes that if you are looking for an optometrist in Orlando for you and your family that you will contact EYES of Winter Park. He anxiously hopes that he can form a long-term relationship with each member of your family allowing you to receive the best eye care available for your family. Set up your appointment today by calling (407) 672-2020. You can easily set up an appointment to see them at their main office in Winter Park or in their office in Orlando.