The difference between an optometrist and an ophthalmologist
Two types of eye health specialists can help you keep your eyes healthy. One is an optometrist. The other is called an ophthalmologist. Both eye specialists play a vital role in your eye care. However, they each do different things.
Optometrists (ODs) are not medical doctors. They are covered by our partner Vision Service Plan (VSP).
You visit an optometrist for:
- Glasses or contact lens.
- Basic eye health and routine eye checkups.
- Symptoms or issues with your eyes.
To find an optometrist, visit vsp.com or call 1(800) 438-4560. VSP will give you the phone number of an optometrist that you can get an appointment with.
When you call the optometrist, please make sure to tell them that you are a VSP member. The optometrist will check your VSP vision care coverage. Your appointment with an optometrist is covered under VSP, not San Francisco Health Plan.
Ophthalmologists are medical doctors who do eye surgery. They are covered by San Francisco Health Plan. They often work together with your optometrist.
You visit an ophthalmologist for:
- Eye surgery or procedures.
- Any skin issues near your eyes (like skin tags or moles).
- Treatment for complex eye health conditions, such as cataracts (cloudy vision) and glaucoma (eye diseases that harm your eyes).
Talk with your primary care provider (PCP) if you need to see an ophthalmologist. Learn more at SFHP Summary of Benefits.
*Your primary care provider (PCP) is the doctor, physician assistant, or nurse practitioner in charge of your health care.
