What is the Difference Between Ophthalmology and Optometry?

When it comes to eye care, many people confuse the terms ophthalmologist and optometrist. While both are essential to maintaining healthy vision, they differ significantly in training, responsibilities, and the type of care they provide. At EZ Settle Solutions, we help eye care providers from surgical ophthalmology clinics to optometry practices—optimize their billing and streamline revenue cycles.

Understanding the differences between these two professions is not just important for patients, but also crucial for healthcare providers aiming for accurate coding and reimbursement.

What is Ophthalmology?

Ophthalmology is a medical specialty that focuses on diagnosing and treating eye diseases often through surgical procedures. Ophthalmologists are medical doctors (MD or DO) trained in both medicine and surgery. They handle:

• Cataracts, glaucoma, and macular degeneration
• Eye trauma and infections
• Retinal detachment and diabetic eye disease
• LASIK and cataract surgeries

Since their training includes a full medical education, ophthalmologists can prescribe medications, perform eye surgeries, and manage systemic conditions that affect vision.

➡ For more details on their scope, visit the American Academy of Ophthalmology.

What is Optometry?

Optometry, on the other hand, is the field of eye care primarily focused on vision testing, eye exams, and the detection of common vision problems. Optometrists hold a Doctor of Optometry (OD) degree but are not medical doctors.

Optometrists can:

• Perform routine eye exams
• Diagnose refractive errors like nearsightedness and astigmatism
• Prescribe eyeglasses or contact lenses
• Detect eye conditions and refer patients to ophthalmologists when needed

While they do not perform surgeries, optometrists are often the first point of contact for vision concerns.

Key Differences Between Ophthalmology and Optometry

Why the Difference Matters in Medical Billing

Billing for ophthalmology and optometry services requires distinct approaches. Ophthalmology often involves surgical codes, complex modifiers, and higher-value claims. Optometry focuses more on routine exams, vision screenings, and preventive care codes. That’s why EZ Settle Solutions offers specialized ophthalmology billing services to help practices reduce errors, manage claims efficiently, and get paid faster. Whether you’re submitting surgery-based claims or routine eye exams, our team ensures your revenue cycle is accurate and compliant. We also support other specialties like gastroenterology and revenue cycle management for end-to-end practice solutions.

Final Thoughts

Understanding the difference between ophthalmology and optometry helps patients seek the right care and helps providers bill accurately. Both roles are vital, and with the right support, practices in each field can operate more efficiently and profitably. Need help managing your ophthalmology or optometry billing? Contact EZ Settle Solutions today to discover how we can streamline your process and maximize your revenue.