Baptist Medical Group Optometry
Optometry is the medical specialty that focuses on examination of the eyes for visual defects and disorders along with the prescription of lenses to correct vision problems. The main difference between optometry and ophthalmology is that optometrists cannot perform eye surgery, whereas ophthalmologists can.
What Do Baptist Medical Group Optometrists Do?
The optometrists of Baptist Medical Group provide eye exams to help patients keep track of the vision and eyesight and to watch for early warning signs of vision problems. They also treat and manage ocular/vision disorders and have the ability to prescribe medication for the eyes and eyelids.
One of the main responsibilities of Baptist Medical Group optometrists is to help correct vision problems by prescribing and fitting prescription lenses, eyeglasses and contact lenses. This is the main reason most patients visit an optometrist.
While optometrists are not trained to perform surgery on the eyes, they can treat eye diseases by prescribing eye drops or other types of vision medications. It is not uncommon for optometrists and ophthalmologists to work closely as a part of a team. However, if an eye disease or disorder requires treatment through surgery, an optometrist would most likely refer the patient to a qualified Baptist Medical Group ophthalmologist.
Types of Conditions Treated
When a patient sees a Baptist Medical Group physician who specializes in optometry, they may be dealing with one of the following health problems:
- Vision problems
- Glaucoma
- Cataracts
- Retinal diseases