If you're dealing with eye disease or vision concerns, understanding the difference between optometry and ophthalmology can help you make the right choice for your care.
At Prairie Eye Care, our team brings medical and surgical knowledge to the communities of , offering patients more options for treating eye conditions and protecting their vision.
Medical Eye Care in Real Life: Why This Matters in
The communities we serve are diverse, hardworking, and family-oriented. Prairie Eye Care - Northgate patients face real-world challenges that affect their eyes every day. Add to that the dry climate, rising screen use among children, and increasing cases of diabetic retinopathy, and it's easy to see why many families need more than just a routine vision test.
That’s where ophthalmology comes in. At , our ophthalmologist, Dr. Sylvia Kogan, MD, FRCSC, supports patients with both medical and surgical care, a valuable resource for more advanced or complex eye issues.
Optometrists and Ophthalmologists: What’s the Difference?
It’s easy to mix up the terms optometrist and ophthalmologist, especially when both professionals work to improve your vision and eye health. Here are the key differences between the two:
Optometrists
A doctor of optometry (OD) is a primary eye care provider. Their training focuses on vision correction, detecting eye conditions, and managing eye health over time. They provide comprehensive eye exams, vision tests, and contact lens fittings. They can prescribe glasses and medications for conditions such as dry eye or eye infections.
Ophthalmologists
Ophthalmologists are medical doctors. They complete four years of medical school, followed by several years of residency training specifically focused on the eye. Their education and medical training prepare them to treat more complex or severe conditions affecting the eye and vision, including those requiring surgical procedures.
How an Ophthalmologist Can Help You
Ophthalmology bridges the gap between primary eye care and advanced medical intervention. Whether you’ve been referred for a specific concern or you're seeking answers about persistent symptoms, an ophthalmologist plays a crucial role in both diagnosis and treatment. Here’s how they support patients in :
1. Diabetic Retinopathy Monitoring and Treatment
Diabetes can affect the tiny blood vessels in the retina, leading to vision loss if left untreated. An ophthalmologist uses high-resolution retinal imaging and medical treatment plans to reduce the risk of long-term damage. Annual eye exams are especially important for patients living with diabetes.
2. Cataract Evaluation and Surgery Co-Management
Cataracts are a normal part of aging, but they can make daily activities like driving and reading difficult. An ophthalmologist diagnoses the severity of cataracts and determines the right time for surgical referral. At , we also co-manage your recovery so everything from prep to follow-up happens in familiar surroundings.
3. Glaucoma and Optic Nerve Health
Glaucoma damages the optic nerve and often develops without early symptoms. Regular testing and imaging help track eye pressure and nerve function. When signs of glaucoma appear, your ophthalmologist may prescribe medication, recommend further testing, or coordinate more advanced care.
4. Pediatric Ophthalmology Consults
Some vision problems in children go beyond what glasses can correct. If a child has symptoms such as eye misalignment, reduced vision in one eye, or complex medical conditions, an ophthalmologist may be needed to examine eye structures or rule out more serious issues. Our team supports these young patients with gentle, thorough evaluations that ease parents' concerns.
5. Sudden Vision Changes or Medical Eye Concerns
If you experience sudden vision loss, flashing lights, or severe eye pain, you may need immediate medical evaluation. Ophthalmologists are trained to assess and manage eye emergencies within the broader context of your overall health. These visits may involve eye dilation, advanced testing, or collaboration with other medical professionals.
6. Ongoing Medical and Surgical Planning
From diagnosing inherited eye conditions to planning surgical procedures, ophthalmologists are the bridge between vision symptoms and whole-eye health. Their training includes understanding the relationship between systemic health and the eye, allowing for more comprehensive treatment strategies.
Get Medical & Surgical Eye Care Without Leaving
Choosing the right provider for your eye health matters, especially when the issue goes beyond routine care. By offering access to ophthalmology within our clinic network, helps patients stay informed, supported, and medically cared for at every stage of life.
Whether you're managing a long-term condition or navigating a new diagnosis, book your comprehensive eye exam, and we will help protect your vision and make the process easier.
Ophthalmology FAQs
Does my child need to see an ophthalmologist?
Most children can be cared for by an optometrist. However, if your child has symptoms like eye crossing, abnormal eye movements, or reduced vision that doesn't improve with glasses, we may recommend a consultation with our ophthalmologist.
Can I get a referral from if I need surgery?
Yes. Our team handles co-management for procedures such as cataract surgery, helping you prepare for surgery and manage recovery while staying connected to the providers who know your history.