Optometrist vs. Ophthalmologist
Optometrist or Ophthalmologist - Raleigh and Rocky Mount, NC
Every Optometrist and Ophthalmologist in Raleigh and Rocky Mount is a certified eye specialist and both are commonly referred to by the title "Eye Doctor." These similarities are a source of the common confusion between the two positions.
Dr. Handschumacher is a licensed optometrist in both Rocky Mount and Raleigh. An optometrist is a Doctor of Optometry and is certified to provide eye care, but is different than a medical doctor like an ophthalmologist. A Doctor of Optometry degree (OD) requires 4 years of postgraduate education in a college of optometry, and many optometrists also complete a residency (on site training).
As an optometrist, Dr. Handschumacher is certified to provide many primary eye care services to the Rocky Mount and Raleigh area. This includes eye exams, treatment of common eye conditions and diseases as well the prescription of contact lenses, glasses and certain medications.
Ophthalmologist - Rocky Mount and Raleigh, NC
Each ophthalmologist in Rocky Mount and Raleigh is a Doctor of Medicine (MD) who specializes in eye care. After medical school, an ophthalmologist needs to complete a single year of internship and three years of residency training in order to practice ophthalmology in Raleigh, NC. Ophthalmologists receive a broader medical education and are treat more severe eye conditions - only ophthalmologists are licensed to perform surgery on the eye.
If you're looking for an ophthalmologist in Rocky Mount, Dr. Handschumacher can help refer you to the perfect doctor for your needs.
At Family Eye Care Center we provide co-management with your ophthalmologist in Raleigh or your ophthalmologist in Rocky Mount for all your eye care needs.
