If you want the most qualified eye doctor to evaluate your eyes and vision, you should choose an ophthalmologist. Out of all the different eye specialists, only an ophthalmologist counts as a medical doctor who is most experienced in the diagnosis and treatment of eye disorders. In addition, only they are trained to perform surgery. An ophthalmologist can provide comprehensive eye care and is highly experienced in both non-surgical and surgical treatments.
In choosing the best eye doctor for you, you need to do your research and consider several qualities. Let’s discuss the important qualities to look for in an eye doctor.
Board-Certification
It takes a minimum of 12 years to study and train to become a highly qualified ophthalmologist. This includes four years in an undergraduate program, four years in medical school, one year of internship, and a three-year residency program in order to be eligible for certification by the American Board of Ophthalmology. Many ophthalmologists also choose to undergo one to three years of training to specialize. The long and intensive training process is necessary because the eye is a complex organ with many different parts that all work together. Ophthalmologists need to have a deep understanding of how the eye works in order to identify and treat problems effectively.
Choosing a board-certified ophthalmologist is always recommended because it ensures the doctor has benchmarked skills and knowledge to provide high-quality care and meets set standards by experts in the field. It also shows that the doctor is committed to lifelong learning and keeping up with the latest advances in the field.
Fellowship Training
If you are considering eye surgery, selecting a doctor with fellowship training in vitreoretinal surgery is an important factor. Vitreoretinal surgery is a type of eye surgery that treats problems with the retina, vitreous, and macula. It can be used to treat conditions such as age-related macular degeneration (AMD), diabetic retinopathy, retinal detachment, and more. Specially trained ophthalmologists who completed additional training in these surgeries are also called vitreoretinal surgeons.
Membership in Professional Organizations
The American Society of Retina Specialists, American Society of Cataract and Refractive Surgery, The Macula Society, the American Academy of Ophthalmology, and the Association for Research in Vision and Ophthalmology are just some examples of organizations that provide many benefits to members, which also makes this an important consideration when searching for a good eye doctor. Professional memberships help ophthalmologists stay up to date on the latest news and research in their field, network with other professionals, and access resources that can help them provide better care for patients.
Good Bedside Manner
Poor bedside manner is an obstacle to open and clear communication, as well as patient comfort. In matters of health, poor communication poses serious risks to patients. Therefore, look for an ophthalmologist with excellent communication skills, who is able to clearly explain diagnoses and treatment options, and who shows empathy and compassion. A consultation can usually helpdetermine whether you are comfortable with an ophthalmologist.
Best Eye Doctor in Washington, MO
The Advanced Sight Center has three board-certified and fellowship-trained ophthalmologists who can provide you with the highest quality, cutting-edge eye and vision care. Our clinic has everything necessary to serve your vision needs, including an optical boutique and an on-staff frame specialist. For any questions or to schedule an appointment with one of our eye doctors, call our Washington eye center today at (636) 239-1650 or use our convenient appointment request form.
