Which professional is primarily responsible for prescribing optical devices like glasses and contact lenses?

The primary professional responsible for prescribing optical devices such as glasses and contact lenses is an optometrist. Optometrists are trained to examine the eyes, diagnose vision problems, and prescribe corrective lenses. They play a vital role in eye care by providing comprehensive vision assessments and managing visual disorders, making them the key practitioners for prescribing eyewear.

Ophthalmologists are medical doctors who specialize in eye care but focus more on diagnosis and treatment, including surgical procedures. They can prescribe glasses, but it is not their primary role. Opticians serve mainly to fit and dispense eyewear based on the prescriptions provided by optometrists or ophthalmologists but do not prescribe optical devices themselves. Orthoptists specialize in diagnosing and treating binocular vision disorders but also lack the authority to prescribe optical devices. Their distinct areas of focus differentiate these professionals in the context of eye care.