Eye care professionals in New Zealand, including ophthalmologists, optometrists, ophthalmic nurses, orthoptists, and opticians, all play unique yet complementary roles in ensuring the health and well-being of your eyes.
Ophthalmologists (Eye Surgeons)
An ophthalmologist, often referred to as an ophthalmic surgeon or eye surgeon is a medical doctor who specialises in the medical and surgical treatment of eye diseases. These specialists diagnose and treat serious conditions such as glaucoma, macular degeneration, and diabetic retinopathy. Ophthalmologists are also skilled in performing intricate eye surgeries, such as cataract surgery, retinal surgery, and refractive laser eye surgery procedures like LASIK, SMILE pro and PRK . To become an ophthalmologist in New Zealand, one must first complete medical school, followed by specialised training in ophthalmology. To gain full registration with the Royal Australian and New Zealand College of Ophthalmologists (RANZCO), a further year of study in ophthalmology overseas is required. In essence it takes at least 12 years to fully qualify as an ophthalmologist in New Zealand.
Optometrists
An optometrist is the frontline person for routine eye exams and vision care. Optometrists assess eye health, diagnose refractive errors such as short-sightedness (myopia), long-sightedness (hyperopia), and astigmatism, and prescribe corrective lenses (glasses or contact lenses). As part of a routine eye examination, an optometrist performs a comprehensive check of the health of the eyes, screening the eyes to detect potential issues such as early signs of eye diseases or abnormalities. Therapeutically qualified optometrists can prescribe certain ocular treatments, like antibiotics or steroids. Optometrists refer patients to ophthalmologists if surgery or advanced medical intervention is needed. To become an optometrist in New Zealand, one must complete a five-year Bachelor of Optometry degree at Auckland University.
Ophthalmic Nurses
An ophthalmic nurse is a registered nurse with specialised training in assisting ophthalmologists. Ophthalmic nurses play a key role in the surgical process, helping manage patient care before, during, and after eye surgeries like cataract removal. They work closely with ophthalmologists, offering support during surgical procedures and assisting with post-operative care to ensure the best possible outcomes for patients.
Orthoptists (ophthalmic technicians)
Orthoptists, or ophthalmic technicians, assist ophthalmologists in their practice by performing preliminary eye measurements and tests. They may also support ophthalmologists during minor surgical procedures. There is no training program in New Zealand for orthoptists. Orthoptists typically train for four years gaining a Bachelor of Applied Science (Orthoptics) qualification, often obtained in Australia or the United Kingdom (UK). Orthoptists who have trained in the UK, tend to work closely with paediatric ophthalmologists to help children improve eye coordination and eye muscle control. Australian trained orthoptists tend to work in more general or laser refractive surgery based ophthalmology practices.
Opticians
Opticians are trained to help you find the right spectacle frames based on your spectacle prescription from an optometrist or ophthalmologist. Opticians ensure that the frames fit well and that the lenses are made to the exact specifications necessary to correct vision. They also provide guidance on frame styles and materials that suit your needs and preferences.
Ophthalmologists (eye surgeons), optometrists, ophthalmic nurses, orthoptists (ophthalmic technicians) and opticians all play a niche role ensuring the delivery of comprehensive eye healthcare in New Zealand.
