optician (redirected from Ophthalmic optician)

optician, filler of prescriptions for and dispenser of corrective lenses. An optician may grind lenses as instructed by the prescription of an optometrist (see optometry) or ophthalmologist (see ophthalmology) or transcribe the instructions for laboratory mechanics. The optician also fits and adjusts the lenses to the client and makes suggestions as to the selection of frames. Increasingly, opticians have taken over the task of fitting contact lenses as well as eyeglasses. Some states require that lab technicians and retail merchandisers be licensed opticians. Requirements may be met through academic training or through a laboratory apprenticeship.

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optician

a. a general name used to refer to ophthalmic optician, a person qualified to examine the eyes and prescribe and supply spectacles and contact lenses

b. a general name used to refer to dispensing optician, a person who supplies and fits spectacle frames but is not qualified to prescribe lenses

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optician [äp′tish·ən]

(engineering)

A maker of optical instruments or lenses.