We make many decisions throughout the day, but none are quite as important as the ones we make about our health. If you’re struggling with vision problems or if you just want to have your eyes examined by a professional, there are important considerations to keep in mind when choosing an optometrist. Keep reading for some helpful tips from the team at Eye2Eye. 

What is an Optometrist?

Before we begin, let’s explain what an optometrist is first. An optometrist is a health professional who specializes in examining, diagnosing, and treating non-surgical eye conditions. An optometrist is a primary eye care professional who sees patients of all ages. If you are experiencing eyestrain, headaches, red eyes, and allergies, among other symptoms, an optometrist will play a pivotal role in diagnosing and treating your eye issues. 

How is an Optometrist Different from an Ophthalmologist or an Optician?

If you’ve been confused by these three different terms, here is the simplest explanation: an optometrist is a primary eye care doctor who examines, diagnoses, and treats eye conditions, ophthalmologists are eye doctors who perform eye surgery and treat advanced eye diseases,  and opticians Opticians are eyewear professionals who guide patients in selecting the right eyewear based on the prescription determined by an optometrist or ophthalmologist.

How to Choose an Optometrist

As an optometry office, we feel compelled to share the considerations you should keep in mind when selecting a new optometrist to address your eye needs. Here is how to choose an optometrist: 

1. Research Their Credentials: Always be sure to visit an optometrist who has completed the necessary education and training to become a Doctor of Optometry (O.D.).

2. Look at Their Reviews and ask for referrals: Word of mouth is always the most trusted source, but just like you research a new restaurant in town, you should take the time to look up the reviews ahead of time for the optometry office you want to visit. Google is usually the best place to start. Look at both the positive and negative reviews to get an idea of what the office and staff are like before scheduling an appointment. 

3. Selection of Eyewear: Many optometrists also carry a variety of designer eyewear in their office varying from budget frames to hand-selected boutique brands Browse their website before setting up an appointment to see if you like their selection of eyewear options. 

4. Have They Invested in Technology?: Avoid an optometry office that uses outdated technology. You want to find an office that has invested in the latest and most advanced equipment to treat your vision concerns or eye problems. Treating your eye issues with the most advanced technology can help ensure accuracy and potentially lower the cost of services.

Visit Eye2Eye Optometry

Are you interested in scheduling a consultation with Eye2Eye Optometry? Eye2Eye is Alexandria’s go-to for personalized eyecare and eyewear with an emphasis on specialized services such as myopia, custom contact lenses, and dry eyes. Our experienced staff provides honest and comprehensive eye care services to our community using the latest technology and products. We are committed to caring for Everything Eyes ® and look forward to having you visit our clinics. Schedule your appointment request and our patient coordinator will contact you to schedule your visit Eye2Eye through our easy contact form.