Types of Eye Care Professionals and Questions to Ask

Visiting an eye care professional can feel overwhelming, especially if you are dealing with vision loss. Knowing the different types of professionals, what to expect during your appointment, and which questions to ask can help you feel prepared and confident.

Types of Eye Care Professionals

Different providers have different roles. Depending on your needs, you may see one or several specialists:

Ophthalmologist: A medical doctor trained to diagnose and treat eye diseases, prescribe medications, and perform surgery. You may see an ophthalmologist if you need surgical care or treatment for complex eye conditions.
Optometrist: A licensed doctor of optometry who examines eyes, prescribes glasses or contact lenses, and diagnoses and treats many vision conditions. In some states, optometrists can provide additional treatments such as certain laser procedures or injections.
Low Vision Specialist: An optometrist or ophthalmologist with additional training in helping people who cannot be fully corrected with glasses, contacts, or surgery. They provide vision aids, technology, and strategies for daily living.
Optician: A technician trained to fit and dispense glasses and contact lenses according to a prescription. Opticians do not diagnose or treat eye disease.
Orthoptist: A professional who works alongside ophthalmologists, focusing on problems with eye movements and binocular vision (how the eyes work together).

Keep in mind: Scope of practice can vary by state. Always check what services are available in your area.

Preparing for Your Visit

Taking a few steps before your appointment will help you get the most out of it:

Bring a support person if possible. A friend or family member can help you remember information, take notes, and provide support. If you can’t or don’t want to bring a support person, consider recording your appointment so that you can review information at home.
Make a list of your medications and health history. Many conditions and medicines can affect your vision.
Write down your symptoms and concerns. Be specific about when changes started and how they affect your daily life.
Bring your current glasses, contacts, or low vision devices. Your provider may want to test how well they are working.
Expect dilation. Your eyes may be dilated for a thorough exam, which can cause temporary blur and light sensitivity. Bring sunglasses and plan for a safe way home.
Ask for accessible communication. Request large print, audio, or digital copies of results, and ask your provider to explain medical terms in plain language.

Questions You Might Ask

Appointments can move quickly, so preparing questions ahead of time helps you get the answers you need. You may not ask everything on this list, but choose what matters most to you:

What is my diagnosis, and how does it affect my vision now and in the future?
What treatments are available for my condition? What are the risks and benefits?
Will I benefit from a low vision exam or rehabilitation services?
Am I safe to drive? If not, what transportation resources should I consider?
How often should I schedule follow-up visits?
What warning signs should make me call your office right away?
What daily habits or changes could help protect my vision (lighting, devices, nutrition, etc.)?
Are there support groups, counselors, or rehabilitation services you recommend?
What is the best way to contact you or your office if I have additional questions?

Tip: Bring your list on paper or in your phone, and don’t be afraid to ask for clarification if you don’t understand something.

Making the Most of Your Eye Care

Eye care is not just about medical treatment; it’s about maintaining independence and quality of life. By understanding who your providers are, preparing for your visit, and asking the right questions, you can play an active role in your care.

If you have significant vision loss, ask about vision rehabilitation , assistive technology, and orientation and mobility training. These services can make a major difference in your ability to live confidently and independently.

Key Takeaway

Types of Professionals: Know who does what.
Preparing for Your Visit: Plan ahead to make the most of your time.
Questions to Ask: Use your visit to get clear, practical information.

With preparation and support, your eye care appointments can become less stressful and more productive, helping you receive the care and resources you need.