Who are optical professionals? Is an Ophthalmologist, Optometrist and Optical Dispenser the same thing?
They aren’t the same but they all look after your eyes, to differing degrees and specialties. Simply put, Ophthalmologists (The Medical Specialist) are medical doctors and often surgeons, Optometrists (The Primary Eye Care Provider) are frontline providers of eye care who test your vision and diagnose common eye conditions and Optical Dispensers (The Eyewear Specialist) take your prescription from the Optometrist or Ophthalmologist to fit and make your glasses.
Read more about the difference🔗.
Why can’t I just pick the nearest eye center? Proximity equals quality, right?
Not quite! Sure, being close by is convenient, but just because an optical professional is around the corner doesn’t mean they’re the best fit for you. Picking the right optical professional is about more than geography—it’s about expertise, personal care, and the right vibe. After all, these are your eyes we’re talking about, not a takeaway pizza order.
What qualifications should I look for?
You don’t want someone who’s only just Googled “how to measure an eye.” In Australia, Optometrists need to be registered with the Optometry Board of Australia (AHPRA)🔗and hold a degree in optometry. Don’t be shy about checking their credentials. Think of it like asking for the chef’s credentials before ordering the most expensive dish on the menu.
At Kellyville Optical, all our Optometrists and Optical Dispensers are formally qualified with certification from tertiary education.
How can I tell if an Optometrist or Optical Dispenser is experienced?
A good indicator is how long they’ve been in the business and their breadth of expertise. Experienced Optometrists and Optical Dispensers have seen it all—blurry vision, wonky prescriptions, even the occasional eye-patch enthusiast. Bonus points if they stay updated on the latest tech and techniques, which shows they’re serious about keeping your eyes in the best shape.
We’ve got over 20 years of experience at Kellyville Optical conducting thorough check-ups🔗 to prioritise your eye health. Think of it as a deep dive into your vision, not just a casual paddle.
How important is the customer service side of things?
Very! You want someone who listens to your needs, explains everything clearly, and doesn’t treat you like a walking wallet. A great optician makes you feel at ease and valued—like an old friend who happens to know a lot about eyes.
Kellyville Optical is known for addressing individual needs, guiding you through eyewear choices, and offering you choice and ongoing support.
We even let you bring your own frames🔗 if you don’t like any of ours.
Should I base my decision on price?
Not entirely. While it’s tempting to go for the cheapest option, remember that quality care often saves money in the long run. That said, you don’t need to sell a kidney to pay for new glasses. A good optician strikes a balance between affordability and quality. Transparency with pricing is key—no hidden fees that make you squint harder than your old prescription.
Our pricing is transparent—we bulk-bill for pensioners, children 17 and under and patients in the Vision Australia NSW Spectacles program. About our costs and fees🔗.
Should I read reviews?
Yes, but take them with a grain of salt. Look for patterns in the feedback—are most people raving about the staff or complaining about wait times? Use reviews as a guide, not gospel. And if a practice has no reviews, that’s a red flag—like a restaurant with no customers.
Read what our clients have to say on Google🔗.
What if I have specific eye issues, like dry eyes or complex prescriptions?
Make sure the optometry practice has experience in handling your specific needs. If they specialise in dry eyes or tricky prescriptions, they’ll likely advertise it. Otherwise, ask! An optician who says, “We’ve got this,” is gold.
Can I bring my concerns or questions without feeling silly?
You should feel comfortable asking anything. Great optical professionals love questions—it means you care about your eyes. If they brush you off or talk down to you, walk away. Quickly. Preferably without bumping into the doorframe.
How can I test them out without committing?
‘Try before you buy’ with a simple eye exam or consultation. Use that time to judge their professionalism, communication, and vibe. It’s like a first date for your eyes—if it feels off, don’t schedule a second one.
What’s the final word on picking the best optical professionals?
The best Optometrist and/or Optical Dispenser isn’t just someone with good credentials—they’re someone who listens, explains, and genuinely cares about your vision. It’s a blend of skill, service, and connection. Treat your eyes to the care they deserve—you’ll be seeing the benefits for years to come 👓.
