An ophthalmologist is a medical doctor who specializes in eye care and vision health. They are trained to diagnose and treat various eye conditions, perform eye surgeries, and prescribe glasses or contact lenses. Ophthalmologists play a crucial role in maintaining eye health and can help with issues like cataracts, glaucoma, and macular degeneration. In addition to treating eye diseases, ophthalmologists also conduct comprehensive eye exams to assess vision and detect any potential problems early. They often work closely with other eye care professionals, such as optometrists and opticians, to provide complete care for patients' visual needs.