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813-284-2300
Getting high-quality eye care is easy if you find the right provider. Unfortunately, most people are confused about which type of provider they need to see and when. In the eye care industry, knowing when to see an ophthalmologist in Tampa or an optometrist in Tampa makes a big difference in the quality of your care. Here is a deeper look at the difference between ophthalmologists and optometrists.
An ophthalmologist is a medical professional who specializes in the diagnosis and treatment of eye disorders. Ophthalmologists typically complete an internship and residency in one or more medical fields before becoming board-certified in ophthalmology. Ophthalmologists can research, diagnose and treat a wide variety of eye disorders from birth defects to cataracts.
In many ways, ophthalmologists and optometrists offer the same services. However, ophthalmologists offer medical services instead of only focusing on eye conditions. They are trained in full-body health, which lets them perform surgical eye procedures. If you need laser eye surgery in Tampa, you will go to an ophthalmologist.
An optometrist is an eye doctor that focuses only on eye conditions. They are primarily concerned with the way your eyes perceive light. Optometrists cannot treat diseases or emergencies, but they can diagnose and treat eye disorders such as cataracts and eye infections.
Optometrists typically complete a three-year degree in college and typically work as independent contractors. Under the federal Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act (HIPAA), optometrists who work for a company must be certified by the Federation of Ophthalmic Examining Boards (FOEB).
To schedule a consultation with a pediatric eye doctor at the Florida Eye Center, please call us at (813) 602-7336, or fill out the request form here to request an appointment.
Disclaimer: The contents of this website are for general educational purposes only. All content and media on the Florida Eye Center website does not constitute professional medical advice nor is the information intended to replace the services provided by the medical professionals at Florida Eye Center or other qualified medical professionals. If you believe you are having a medical emergency, call 911 immediately.
The content, views, and opinions communicated on this website do not represent the views of Florida Eye Center. Reliance on any information provided by this website is solely at your own risk. Although this website contains links to other medical websites, this is strictly for informational purposes. Florida Eye Center is not responsible nor do they approve of the content featured on any third party linked websites referenced on this website.
To request an appointment, please access the form below or contact our office at (813) 972-4444. While we do our best to accommodate your request, appointment requests made through our website are not guaranteed until confirmed by our office. If this is an emergency, please call 911.
