[1] In the UK they are registered with a qualification in ophthalmology who is employed to carry out medical eye examinations and prescribe glasses, contact lenses, eyepatches and other orthoptic treatment.
[citation needed] "MPs are ophthalmologists who undertake NHS sight tests under the General Ophthalmic Services contract.
Like optometrists, they examine eyes, test sight, diagnose abnormalities and prescribe suitable corrective lenses.
"The responsibilities of OMPs in conducting NHS sight tests are the same as those of optometrists and both have an important role in the primary detection of eye disease.
In the course of sight testing, symptoms and signs of eye disease may become evident and the OMP has the additional role of taking a history, conducting an ophthalmic examination as appropriate, and referring patients for further investigation and treatment where indicated.