Opticians:
Are health professionals trained to supply, prepare and dispense optical appliances, interpret prescriptions prepared by Ophthalmologists and Optometrists, and fit, adjust and adapt optical appliances. In some jurisdictions in Canada, Opticians are also known as Ophthalmic Dispensers. Opticians are regulated by a Regulatory Body, often called a College of Opticians, in their province.

Optometrists:
Are health professionals trained to assess the eye and visual system, sensory and ocular motor disorders and dysfunctions of the eye and the visual system and diagnose refractive disorders. An Optometrist prescribes and dispenses corrective devices. Optometrists are regulated by the Board of Examiners in Optometry.

Ophthalmologists:
Are medical doctors who specialize in eye and vision care, diagnosis and the treatment of eye disease and provide eye exams, prescribe corrective lenses, prescribe and administer medication and perform surgery. Ophthalmologists are regulated by a College of Physicians and Surgeons in their province.