NORTH PORTLAND OPTICAL

Doctors of optometry (ODs) are the primary health care professionals for the eye. Optometrists examine, diagnose, treat, and manage diseases, injuries, and disorders of the visual system, the eye, and associated structures as well as identify related systemic conditions affecting the eye. An optometrist has completed pre-professional undergraduate education in a college or university and four years of professional education at a college of optometry, leading to the doctor of optometry (O.D.) degree. Some optometrists complete an optional residency in a specific area of practice. Optometrists are eye health care professionals state-licensed to diagnose and treat diseases and disorders of the eye and visual system.

An optician or other ancillary support staff person who, where authorized by state law and trained or certified to do so, may fit or dispense contact lenses to a patient based on the prescription of an optometrist or medical physician.

Opticians help fit eyeglasses and contact lenses, following prescriptions from Ophthalmologists and Optometrists. They also help customers decide which eyeglass frame or contact lenses to buy.

Source: NUCC, CMS