An ophthalmologist is a medical physician who treats eye and vision problems with medications and surgery.
Tips & Links
- An ophthalmologist is a medical physician who evaluates and treats serious eye problems. They are specially trained to care for more severe eye diseases and can perform eye surgery.
- You need a referral from your physician or optometrist to see an ophthalmologist.
- The most common surgery for seniors is for cataracts (thickening of your eye lens causing vision changes).
- Learn more about specific changes and or diseases in your eye at Healthlink BC.
- Healthlink BC recommends that you get an eye exam every 2 years after 65 years of age.
- Share any vision changes with your physician, nurse practitioner, and care partners.
- Learn how to prepare for cataract eye surgery from the Canadian Association of Optometrists.
- Learn about what eye services are covered by medical services plan (MSP) including an annual eye exam for seniors over 65 years of age, trauma to the eye, or diseases such as diabetes that can impact vision. In most cases, a medical or surgical referral to an ophthalmologist is covered by MSP. Ask what services or medications may not be covered such as eye drops.
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