Eye Center at GBMC

Ophthalmologists are medical or osteopathic doctors who offer the full range of eye care services. Following medical or osteopathic school, ophthalmologists continue their training with a four-year residency program in ophthalmology and ophthalmic surgery. They diagnose and treat all eye diseases as well as provide standard vision and eye exams. Ophthalmologists are also able to prescribe and fit eyeglasses and contact lenses. They are the only eye care providers who perform surgery. 

Some ophthalmologists pursue subspecialty training beyond their residency. In addition to comprehensive care, the Eye Center at GBMC provides care in the following subspecialties: pediatric ophthalmology and strabismus, neuro-ophthalmology, medical retina and low vision, oculoplastic surgery, and cataract surgery.

Optometrists are healthcare professionals who have completed a four-year Doctor of Optometry (OD) degree. They provide primary eye care, which focuses on performing eye exams and vision tests, detecting and treating certain eye conditions, and prescribing corrective lenses, including contacts.

Orthoptists are specialty trained eye care professionals who focus on the diagnosis and treatment of eye alignment and ocular motility disorders. They work hand-in-hand with ophthalmologists to provide non-surgical therapies to patients with diseases such as strabismus and amblyopia. Orthoptists work with patients of all ages, but due to the nature of the conditions they treat, many of their patients are pediatric.

Opticians are eye care technicians who specialize in the design, and fit of eyeglasses. They work with patients of all ages to help select frames to match individual styles, face shape, and prescription needs. Opticians use prescriptions supplied by an ophthalmologist or optometrist. They do not perform eye exams, test vision, write prescriptions, or diagnose or treat eye diseases.