There are a number of different professionals who may be involved in looking after your eye health. Some work in the community and some in hospital eye departments. If you have poor sight, you can expect to have appointments with at least one of the following professionals.
Optometrists or ophthalmic opticians
Optometrists or ophthalmic opticians (often called opticians) usually work in high street practices or shops, or hospital eye departments.
They are qualified to test sight, prescribe glasses and detect eye conditions. They can also refer you, if necessary, to your GP (family doctor) who may in turn refer you on to a hospital.
Most optometrists are not qualified to diagnose, treat or operate on your eyes, although they will often discuss your eye condition with you. They can also provide advice on looking after your eyes and may help you with your low vision aids.
Dispensing opticians
Dispensing opticians are qualified to fit and supply glasses, contact lenses and low vision aids.
Orthoptists
Orthoptists are qualified to identify and treat certain eye conditions such as squints or double vision. They usually work in hospital eye departments and do lots of work with children, though they do work with people of all ages.
Ophthalmologists
Ophthalmologists are specialist eye doctors who diagnose, treat and monitor eye conditions with medication and surgery. They usually work in hospital eye departments or clinics (often called ophthalmology departments).
They may prescribe glasses although they do not fit and supply them.
Ophthalmic nurses
Ophthalmic nurses receive special training in eye conditions and diseases on top of their general training. They may perform some of the tests at the hospital and some ophthalmic nurse specialists may perform treatments for certain eye conditions .
Eye Clinic Liaison Officers (ECLOs)
ECLOs are based in hospitals and provide a service for people who have been diagnosed with an eye condition. They are trained to help you deal with emotional and practical challenges you may face after you are diagnosed with an eye condition. This includes emotional support, quality information in accessible formats, help and information about the certification process, referrals for rehabilitation and referrals to the appropriate local and national services.
Find out more about Eye Clinic Liaison Officers.