Hi Sheri - An ophthalmologist is an MD with a specialty in the diseases& conditions of the eye. They have training in interpretation of a wide variety of complex diagnostic eye tests. There are even sub-specialties - like retinologist and neuro ophthalmologist.

An optometrist is trained to examine eyes, prescribe corrections, and recognize diseases, but is not an MD, cannot do surgery and in most states cannot give eye injections.

People with diabetes should see an ophthalmologist at least once to check for diabetic retinopathy and other conditions. If all is well, you may be told you can go back to seeing your optometrist routinely (at least once a year) with periodic rechecks by the doc.

I was raised seeing an optometrist and ophthalmologist alternately - every year without fail - because my Mom grew up so nearsighted she was virtually blind and she didn't want us 6 kids to live like that. At one point, 5 of us wore glasses, but my Dad's union had fabulous insurance. At one point, the optician said to my Mom, "Mrs A, do you realize we have seen someone from your family 50 times this year?"

I have seen an ophthalmologist most of adult my life, having had a couple of corneal injuries from flying metal, an unexplained retinal bleed, and now glaucoma and age-related cataracts. Two years ago, I demanded that my husband switch from his optometrist because he was having trouble driving - within a few weeks he had cataract surgery on both eyes.

Sue