Opticians
Are trained health professionals, trained to supply, prepare and dispense optical appliances; interpret prescriptions prepared by Ophthalmologists and Optometrists; and fit, adjust and adapt optical appliances. In some jurisdictions in Canada, Opticians are also known and Ophthalmic Dispensers. In Ontario, Opticians are licensed through a 2- to 3-year college and internship program and are regulated by the College of Opticians of Ontario.
Optometrists:
Are health professionals trained to assess the eye and visual system sensory and ocular motor disorders, and dysfunctions of the eye and the visual system, and diagnose refractive disorders. An optometrist prescribes and dispenses corrective devices. Optometry is a 4-year university program, generally requiring and undergraduate degree in sciences. Ontario Optometrists are regulated by the College of Optometrists of Ontario.
Ophthalmologists:
are medical doctors who specialize in eye and vision care, diagnosis and treatment of eye disease and provide eye examinations, prescribe corrective lenses, prescribe and administer medication and perform surgery. In Ontario, Opththalmologists are regulated by the College of Physicians and Surgeons of Ontario