Selecting the right doctor to care for your eyes is a key health decision. Why do we say that? This is because the doctor you select is the specialist who you will be trusting with your vision. Your vision is the most important sense you have. In fact, researchers have shown time and time again that it can easily override your other senses. This means that you will believe what you see more than what you hear, feel, smell or taste. If you choose the right eye doctor in Wichita, you can have a lifetime of good vision.
There are multiple types of doctors who can care for your eyes. You have an optometrist, an ophthalmologist and an optician.
What Does an Optometrist Do?
Optometrists have gone to school to become doctors of optometry. Their goal is to evaluate your eyes, checking for vision and health issues. If you have issues with your vision, they will prescribe you glasses, contacts or other treatment plans to help improve your vision.
In the United States, an optometrist can prescribe medication to treat eye diseases. Every state has its own laws as to what an optometrist can and cannot do. Your optometrist may be part of the team who provides you care before and after eye surgery. They are able to do this because they have four years of college education and the sciences along with four years of postgraduate training in optometry school.
What Is an Ophthalmologist?
An ophthalmologist such as Dr. Patel is an eye doctor who specializes in eye and vision care. Their training allows them to examine your eyes and treat and diagnose diseases. They are also trained to prescribe medication and perform eye surgery. Like an optometrist, an ophthalmologist can also prescribe eyeglasses and contact lenses. An ophthalmologist receives more training than an optometrist. For this reason, our specialist can carry out more duties than a typical optometrist.
So What Doctors Are Right for Me?
If you are a resident of Wichita, KS and trying to find the right eye doctor for you, it is good to ask yourself a few questions. First, are your eyes healthy? Second, do you need a medical or surgical treatment? Third, do you just need a routine exam?
The way you answer these questions can help determine which type of doctor is best for you. For example, if you have any eye problems, such as glaucoma or cataracts, then it’s probably best for you to visit an ophthalmologist. The ophthalmologist will work with you in diagnosing and treating your eye issues.
In some instances, an optometrist and ophthalmologist will work together providing you the care that you need. In general, an ophthalmologist has the expertise and training necessary to provide you with comprehensive care, regardless of your eye issues.
Your eyes are unbelievably important. Do not leave their care in the air. Take the time to do your due diligence and find the right eye doctor for you. At Wichita Vision Institute, Dr. Patel can provide you with the care you need to keep your eyes as healthy as possible. Contact our office in Wichita to schedule your consultation and learn more!
