Optician

Optician

An optician, or dispensing optician, is a technical practitioner who designs, fits and dispenses corrective lenses for the correction of a person's vision. Opticians determine the specifications of various ophthalmic appliances that will give the necessary correction to a person's eyesight. Some registered or licensed opticians also design and fit special appliances to correct cosmetic, traumatic or anatomical defects. These devices are called shells or artificial eyes.

History

The profession of opticianry dates back to the fourteenth century. The first recorded optician, named Alessandro Spina, was a monk from Pisa, Italy. He is credited with inventing the first eyeglasses.

Role

Opticians use prescriptions supplied by ophthalmologists or optometrists, but do not test vision or write prescriptions for visual correction. Opticians are not permitted to diagnose or treat eye diseases.

Education and training

In many countries, opticians must complete a two-year associate degree program before they are allowed to work. In some countries, opticians must also pass a licensing exam.

Regulation

The regulation of opticians varies from country to country. In the United States, opticians are regulated by state boards that vary by state. In the United Kingdom, opticians are regulated by the General Optical Council.

See also

• Ophthalmology
• Optometry
• Eye care professional

External links

• Optician Online
• American Academy of Ophthalmology

Optician Resources
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