In the world of eye health and care, many professionals have a hand in providing the services necessary to ensure those with impaired vision have corrective lenses. While many people are familiar with the eye exams and medical procedures used by ophthalmologists and optometrists, fewer understand the distinction between these and an optician. This guide explains more about these professionals and how their work benefits those in need of vision aids.

What Are They?

Opticians are eye health professionals licensed by the American Board of Opticianry, but they are not doctors. Ophthalmologists and optometrists have more to do with medical eye care, exams, and writing prescriptions, while opticians are the licensed professionals who build the glasses and make sure they fit patients. They may work in laboratories or in eyeglass centers, adapting, measuring, and fitting glasses and contact lenses to match the prescriptions given to patients by eye doctors.

What Does an Optician Do?

Opticians ensure that any eyeglasses, contact lenses, or prescription sunglasses sold to patients for medical reasons match written prescriptions from doctors. They are trained to interpret these prescriptions as well as use special equipment to measure the patient's pupillary distance, vertex distance, eye size, and temple length. This helps them make more informed suggestions while helping the patient choose a frame style that matches their lens thickness as well as their preferences and facial features. While not all optician services are covered by insurance, due to being a non-medical field, they can obtain and record the patient's information, submit vision insurance, and relay coverage information to patients.

When Should You See an Optician?

You are most likely to visit an optician after a routine eye exam or when you are choosing new eyewear or contact lenses, whether because the prescription has changed or because the old pair has broken or worn out. An optician will help you select a pair of glasses that fits well and looks great, and they can usually fix or adjust damaged glasses and replace cracked lenses.

When you're ready for your next pair of glasses or contacts, visit the opticians at Cook Inlet Eyewear in Anchorage. With a wide selection of high-style frames, new designs, and various types of contact lenses, they have everything you need to look and see your best. They also have the largest selection of pediatric eyewear in Alaska. Call (907) 276-1021 to schedule an appointment, or visit their website for more information.