What is the difference between an OD and an opthamologist?

An OD, or Doctor of Optometry, is a healthcare professional who specializes in eye care, including vision testing, prescribing glasses and contact lenses, and diagnosing certain eye conditions. In contrast, an ophthalmologist is a medical doctor (MD or DO) who specializes in eye and vision care, including performing eye surgery and treating more complex eye diseases. While both ODs and ophthalmologists provide eye care, ophthalmologists have a broader medical training and can perform surgical interventions.