what is the role of the nova scotia college of dispensing opticians? |
The Nova Scotia College of Dispensing Opticians is a regulatory body. The College regulates the practice of Opticianry by ensuring Registered Opticians are qualified and are consistently providing safe and ethical care to patients. The College is not a teaching institution. The College has a duty to serve and protect the public interest by overseeing the conduct and competence of Registered Opticians in Nova Scotia. The College also sets and enforces practice standards and responds to complaints if standards are not being met. |
WHAT IS THE DIFFERENCE BETWEEN AN OPTICIAN, OPTOMETRIST, AND OPHTHALMOLOGIST? |
Opticians:
Sometimes referred to as Registered Opticians or Licensed Opticians are health professionals trained to:
- Supply prepare and dispense optical appliances
- Interpret prescriptions prepared by optometrists and physicians/ophthalmologists
- Fit, adjust and adapt optical appliances.
- In Nova Scotia, opticians are regulated by the Nova Scotia College of Dispensing Opticians.
Optometrists:
Are health professionals trained to:
- Assess the eye and visual system
- Diagnose sensory and ocular motor disorders, dysfunctions of the eye and refractive disorders.
- Prescribe and dispense corrective devices.
Ophthalmologists:
Are physicians who specialize in eye and vision care and are trained to:
- Diagnose and treat eye disease
- Provide eye exams and prescribe corrective lenses
- Prescribe and administer medication and perform surgery.
DO I NEED A REFERAL TO SEE AN OPTICIAN? |
No. Opticians are trained to fit, adjust and dispense eye glasses and contact lenses.
