Although Ophthalmic Medicine and Orthopedics are subspecialties of medicine, both are entirely different streams of study. Ophthalmic Medicine deals with the study of the function and ailments of the human eye. On the other hand, Orthopedics is concerned with the study of the anatomy, tumors, infections, hereditary diseases, trauma and other ailments relating the musculoskeletal system. The key differences between Ophthalmic Medicine and Orthopedics are explained in detail in this article.

Ophthalmic Medicine Courses and Career Opportunities

Aspirants have to pursue the MD or DO program in Ophthalmology to work as an Ophthalmologist. Those who wish to carry out surgical operations in ophthalmology have to pursue the Master of Surgery program with specialization in Ophthalmic Medicine. They can study the postgraduate program in the respective areas after completion of their four-year MBBS program and the internship thereafter. Professional doctors can study the diploma in Ophthalmic Medicine and Surgery course also. After completion of their course, these practitioners can seek out for career in eye-care hospitals, medical institutes, and laboratories carrying out the research work, lens manufacturing industries, optical shops or industries and so on.

Orthopedics Courses and Career Opportunities

In order to become an Orthopedist, individuals have to study the Masters’ program in Orthopedics. Only those who have studied the Bachelors’ program in medicine will be eligible to pursue the MD or DO program in Orthopedics. In their daily affair, these physicians prescribe medications, physical therapy, steroid injections and so on to patients suffering from arthritis of the muscular joints, varicose veins, and other orthopedic problems. Orthopedists mostly work in sanatoriums, research laboratories, Government Health departments, medical institutes and so on. Some of the Orthopedists work in Universities or institutes as lecturers.

Key differentiation between Ophthalmic Medicine and Orthopedics

Ophthalmologists are general practitioners who analyze and provide treatments to the various diseases and disorders relating to human eye whereas Orthopedists treat the diverse conditions of the human musculoskeletal system.

Ophthalmologists are MBBS doctors who have specialized in Ophthalmology whereas Orthopedists are physicians who have done specialization courses in Orthopedics.

Both Ophthalmologists and Orthopedists are medical practitioners who work to analyze and cure the various ailments relating to human body.