Do you know who’s taking care of your eyes before and after LASIK?
Many people don’t know the difference between an optometrist and an ophthalmologist. Most don’t understand the role that certified ophthalmic personnel play as part of your eye care team.
If you are considering LASIK or PRK in Calgary, come and meet the Western Laser Eye Associate team which includes:
Ophthalmologist
An ophthalmologist or ophthalmic surgeon is an Eye M.D. – a medical doctor trained in eye care and eye surgery. Ophthalmologists can provide all types of care from diagnosis of eye disease to eye surgery. At Western Laser Eye Associates, Dr. Anderson Penno is a board certified ophthalmologist. Dr. Anderson Penno will see each LASIK and PRK candidate to determine the best procedure for each person. Dr. Anderson Penno will provide ongoing care including LASIK or PRK and follow up visits.
Certified Ophthalmic Personnel
The Joint Commission on Allied Heath Personnel in Ophthalmology (JCAHPO) certifies technical eye care personnel at four levels – certified ophthalmic assistant, certified ophthalmic technician, certified ophthalmic medical technologist, and corporate certified ophthalmic assistant. Certification requires that personnel complete training and testing. Certified ophthalmic personnel assist ophthalmologists and optometrists with vision testing, visual field testing, and a variety of other technical duties including corneal mapping and surgical assisting. Most offices will also have ophthalmic personnel who are gaining experience in advance of testing for certification.
Optometrist
A Doctor of Optometry (OD) degree and a license to practice optometry (not medicine) is required for optometrists. Optometrists prescribe glasses and contacts and diagnose and treat common eye diseases. Optometrists often work closely with ophthalmologists and may refer to ophthalmologists for eye surgeries including LASIK and PRK.
Optician
Opticians are trained to fill prescriptions for contacts and glasses. Opticians are not trained to diagnose or treat eye diseases or to write prescriptions. They can provide excellent advice regarding lens and frame choice.
More information about eye care professionals can be found at www.AAO.org , www.JCAHPO.org , www.opto.ca , andwww.geteyesmart.com.
If you are interested in booking a free laser vision correction evaluation please contact Western Laser Eye Associates today.
