July 3, 2025
Knock Knock Eye: Optometrist vs. Ophthalmologist: What’s the Real Difference?
Knock Knock, Hi! with the GlaucomfleckensAbout this episode
You ever have someone call you an optometrist when you're, say, very much not? Yeah… that happened again. So in this episode, I’m laying out the not-so-subtle (and sometimes very contentious) differences between optometrists and ophthalmologists—education, lasers, the whole thing. We also dive into the thin but mighty conjunctiva, the raging war against red eyes, and yes, my completely unsolicited but deeply held thoughts on AI in healthcare. Spoiler: I don’t hate it, but I am watching it like it might try to prescribe eyedrops. Takeaways: There’s a reason you never see an ophthalmologist use the puff machine—and it’s not snobbery. AI in healthcare? Will’s got opinions. Cautiously optimistic, mostly side-eye. Optometrists and ophthalmologists mostly play nice—until lasers get involved. If you're itchy, red, and goopy, there’s a good chance your eyeballs are trying to tell you something very specific. Someone invented ointment and basically saved ophthalmology. We owe them a smooch. — To Get Tickets to Wife & Death: You can visit Glaucomflecken.com/live We want to hear YOUR stories (and medical puns)! Shoot us an email and say hi! knockknockhi@human-content.com Can’t get enough of us? Shucks. You can support the show on Patreon for early episode access, exclusive bonus shows, livestream hangouts, and much more! – http://www.patreon.com/glaucomflecken Also, be sure to check out the newsletter: https://glaucomflecken.com/glauc-to-me/ If you are interested in buying a book from one of our guests, check them all out here: https://www.amazon.com/shop/dr.glaucomflecken If you want more information on models I use: Anatomy Warehouse provides for the best, crafting custom anatomical products, medical simulation kits and presentation models that create a lasting educational impact. For more information go to Anatomy Warehouse DOT com. Link: https://anatomywarehouse.com/?aff=14 Plus for 15% off use code: Glaucomflecken15 -- A friendly reminder from the G’s and Tarsus: If you want to learn more about Demodex Blepharitis, making an appointment with your eye doctor for an eyelid exam can help you know for sure. Visit http://www.EyelidCheck.com for more information. Today’s episode is brought to you by DAX Copilot from Microsoft. DAX Copilot is your AI assistant for automating clinical documentation and workflows helping you be more efficient and reduce the administrative burdens that cause us to feel overwhelmed and burnt out. To learn more about how DAX Copilot can help improve healthcare experiences for both you and your patients visit aka.ms/knockknockhi . To learn more about Pearson Ravitz go to http://www.pearsonravitz.com/knockknock . Upgrade your Summer. Go to http//www.cozyearth.com and use code KNOCKKNOCK for 40% off best-selling temperature-regulating sheets, apparel, and more. Trust me—you’ll feel the difference the very first night. Produced by Human Content Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices