What to expect
An optician and an optometrist may perform different roles.
A good place to start
Ask who carries out the examination and what is included. Confirm fitting, adjustment and aftercare arrangements before buying glasses or contact lenses.
What to compare
- Qualified examiner
- Examination scope
- Fitting and aftercare
Prepare your questions
Write down why you are seeking care and what you want to understand. Check the practitioner’s professional registration and whether a referral is needed. These guides explain services; they cannot assess symptoms or choose treatment. Do not delay urgent care to compare listings.
Understand the other options
Ophthalmologist
An ophthalmologist is a medical eye specialist who assesses and treats eye disease, and may perform surgery.
Laser eye treatment
Eye surgery services cover very different procedures, including cataract and refractive surgery.