Ophthalmologists, optometrist, and opticians are each play an important role in providing eye care. Their difference is in their level of training, expertise, and what they are allowed to do:
- Ophthalmologists are medical doctors (MD) and surgeons with a minimum of 8 years of medical and surgical training after their college degree. They training allows them to diagnose and treat all eye conditions, perform surgery, and fit glasses and contact lenses.
- Optometrists receive a doctor of optometry (OD) by completing 4 years of optometry school after their college education. Optometrist are not medical doctors and as a result do not perform surgery. They are licensed to diagnose and treat certain eye diseases, fit glasses, and contact lenses.
- Opticians are trained to verify and fit eyeglass lenses and frames, contact lenses, and other devices to correct sight.
Yes, at Colorado Eye Clinic we provided updated prescriptions for glasses and contact lenses upon reques
Most insurance plans including Medicare, Medicaid (Health First Colorado), and PPO plans of major insurance companies do NOT require referral or prior authorization. That means if you have any of those plans, you can call us today to make an appointment without having to get a referral from your primary care doctor or an approval from your insurance.
Plans that usually need a referral or prior authorization include Tricare, Medicare Advantage, and most HMO plans. If you are not sure about the status of your health insurance plan, contact us today to find out if you need a referral.