Ophthalmology Referral Information

If you are a physician or other health care professional:

Most of the ophthalmologists at MEEI and its satellites see patients by physician referral only:

• If you know the name of the ophthalmologist, please contact the Eye Patient Referral. Telephone: 617-573-4000, Mon.-Fri. 8:30 a.m. - 4:00 p.m.
• If you need an ophthalmologist to be recommended for a specific diagnosis, please call the Eye Physician Directory 617-573-4199, Mon.-Fri. 8:30 a.m. - 4:00 p.m.
• During non-business hours, the Eye Emergency Service 617-573-2430 is available twenty four hours a day, seven days per week.

If you are a patient or a patient's family member:

Most of the ophthalmologists at MEEI and its satellites see patients by doctor referral only; however:

• Patients may call directly for basic eye examinations as follows:
• Eye Exam for Adults (General Eye Service): 617-573-3202
• Eye Exam for Children (Eye Pediatrics): 617-573-3048
• For assistance with all other appointments, patients may call the eye physician directory at 617-573-4199, Monday through Friday, 8:30 a.m. - 4:00 p.m.

Eye Services are available at the following facilities:

Ophthalmologist, Optometrist or Optician?

Patients are sometimes confused by the terms used for eye care professionals. The following definitions will assist you in distinguishing the services each provide:

Ophthalmologist

An ophthalmologist is a physician who specializes in the comprehensive care of the eyes and visual system in the prevention of eye disease and injury. Ophthalmologists complete four or more years of medical school, one year of internship and three or more years of specialized medical and surgical training in eye care. The ophthalmologist is the medically trained specialist who can deliver total eye care - eye examinations, contact lenses, medical and surgical eye care.
*Source: The American Academy of Ophthalmology.

Optometrist

An optometrist is an eye care provider who has attended 4 years of college and 4 years of optometry school. Optometrists primarily prescribe eyeglasses and contact lenses. However, in some states, optometrists are also allowed to diagnose certain eye conditions and prescribe a limited number of medications.

Optician

An optician (sometimes called an oculist) is a maker or dealer in optical items. Opticians may fill a prescription for eye glasses or contact lenses written by an ophthalmologist or an optometrist.