Optician

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Opticians are skilled technicians who fill optical prescriptions and fit people with glasses or contact lenses. Opticians, unlike ophthalmologists and optometrists, are not licensed to test vision, write medicine prescriptions, or diagnose or treat eye diseases.

Opticians can:

  • Fill prescriptions for eyeglasses and contact lenses.
  • Help people select appropriate glasses.
  • Fit lenses into eyeglass frames.
  • Adjust eyeglass frames for comfort and proper lens position.
  • Clean and polish contact lenses.

An optician may complete a training program or an apprenticeship.

Some states do not require a person to complete a program to be licensed as an optician.

The Health Encyclopedia contains general health information. Not all treatments or services described are covered benefits for Kaiser Permanente members or offered as services by Kaiser Permanente. For a list of covered benefits, please refer to your Evidence of Coverage or Summary Plan Description. For recommended treatments, please consult with your health care provider.