Ophthalmic Optician
An ophthalmologist optician or ophthalmic optician is a healthcare professional responsible for prescribing and providing glasses to patients.
Ophthalmic opticians are trained to diagnose and treat vision conditions and diseases such as myopia, hyperopia, astigmatism and presbyopia. They also advise on the choice of frames and lenses, helping patients select the glasses that best suit their needs and preferences.
Ophthalmic opticians also fit glasses and contact lenses, make minor repairs to glasses and advise on their maintenance. In addition, they can provide training on optical safety and hygiene.
To become an ophthalmic optician, you need to obtain a degree or certificate in ophthalmic dispensing, optics or optometric technology. Programs in ophthalmic dispensing usually combine courses in ophthalmic optics and optical dispensing with hands-on clinical experience in the field.
Courses usually include optics, mathematics, anatomy, physics and principles of vision. Students also learn to fit and dispense glasses, contact lenses and other optical devices. In addition, they study the principles of patient care, customer service and regulatory compliance. Finally, students in these programs usually complete a clinical internship, in which they gain practical experience in fitting and adjusting glasses, as well as in handling contact lenses.