What are optometrists?

Optometrists can prescribe glasses and contact lenses, and a limited range of medications. They can diagnose and monitor eye disease and also provide referrals directly to ophthalmologists if surgery or complex therapeutic treatment is needed. Eye examinations undertaken by optometrists are covered by Medicare and are usually bulk billed. You don’t need a referral to see an optometrist.

“Most eye diseases are insidious, meaning that by the time a patient notices symptoms, significant vision loss may have occurred,” co-optometry director Robert Pietrini of Specsavers Shellharbour said.

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“Optometrists are able to detect many early signs of ocular disease before loss of vision occurs and can provide a referral for an ophthalmologist. As a general rule, the sooner treatment is instituted, the better the long-term prognosis will be.”

If a patient has any kind of ocular symptom, they should seek attention from an optometrist immediately as they are able to assess the patient and advise on the suitable course of action. This may include a same-day or general referral or to attend the ER.

Specsavers Shellharbour is the largest optometric practice in the Illawarra with optometrists available seven days per week and most public holidays. All eye tests are bulk billed and include a free digital retinal scan, ocular health and vision assessment and correction.

And ophthalmologists?

Also known as eye specialists, eye surgeons or eye doctors, ophthalmologists can diagnose and treat eye conditions, perform eye surgery, and prescribe medications and glasses. Common eye diseases treated by ophthalmologists include cataracts, macular degeneration (MD), glaucoma, diabetic retinopathy, uveitis, keratoconus and microbial keratitis. Surgeries include LASIK (laser vision correction), retinal tear/detachment repair, strabismus correction, etc.

Seeing an ophthalmologist requires a referral unless a patient presents to the ER. If a patient is already under their care, contact them directly or the ER.

Call Specsavers, Shop 52 Stockland Shellharbour, Lake Entrance Rd on 4296 2342 or see specsavers.com.au/shellharbour.

These require an urgent check

A patient should seek immediate attention of an ophthalmologist if they experience any of the following:

“Generally, a patient seeks attention from their optometrist or GP for a referral to see an ophthalmologist,” co-optometry director Yavani Mudaly of Specsavers Shellharbour said.