A recent survey by the National Consumers League (NCL) shows that many Americans would flunk Eye Care 101. Even those who wear glasses and contact lenses are confused about the difference among eye care providers, the services they perform and the training and education they must complete. Fully one-third of respondents incorrectly thought optometrists are medical doctors.

To educate consumers, the NCL has created a new Web site, “Eye Care 101 for Consumers,” (www.nclnet.org/health/eyes/consumers.htm) with tips and resources.

Make sure you know who’s taking care of your eyes:

• Ophthalmologists are doctors of medicine or and doctors of osteopathy (MDs or and DOs) . They are the medical doctors on the eye care team. They who are trained to deliver total eye care. This includes including surgery, advanced care and prescribing contacts and glasses.
• Ophthalmologists have four years of medical school, followed by four years of residency and a lifetime of continuing education and refinement.
• Optometrists (ODs) examine the eye to diagnose vision problems and abnormalities and prescribe contact lenses and glasses. Optometrists are not medical doctors .
• Opticians dispense and fit contact lenses and glasses.

Consumers must take an active role and familiarize themselves with who it is they’re seeking treatment from. To learn more go to http://www.wsma.org/patients/provider_definitions.html