How to Get an Eye Exam
Your eyes are precious, and regular annual eye exams should be a standard part of your health practices. Eye exams are the best preventative approach to protect your vision and detect any eye problems early on. Eye exams are usually conducted by an optometrist , opthamologist, or optician. -An optometrist has a Doctor of Optometry degree from an optometry school which usually includes four years of training in eye examinations and in treating certain types of visual and eye disorders.-An ophthalmologist is a Medical Doctor who has an M.D. degree. -An optician is not an eye doctor. They sell and fit eyeglasses and sunglasses, and fill optometrist's and ophthalmologist's prescriptions.To get an eye exam, follow these four steps.
Instructions
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Get an Annual Eye Exam
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1
Decide if you need to see an optometrist or opthamologist. An optometrist can take care of you if your eyes have nothing medically wrong, and you just need glasses or contact lenses or a routine eye check-up. See an ophthalmologist if your eyes have anything wrong with them.
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2
Get a referral. Ask a friend, co-worker or family member for a referral. Ask how long they've been seeing this doctor and what their experiences have been like. If you're new to the area and starting a new job, ask the company HR Director - they can often give you a list of referrals, in particular those that accept your company's vision insurance.
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3
Schedule an appointment. If this is your first visit, ask how much time will be needed for the appointment, and what information you will need to bring, such as insurance card, health records, medications you are taking, previous prescription(s) and glasses. Also ask what the cost will be, and whether you must pay up front, co-pay, or if they charge the insurance company directly. Always budget extra time in case the doctor is running late.
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4
Prepare a list of any symptoms or problems you are experiencing with your eyes. The doctor will want to know this. Get specific. Do they itch, ooze, feel dry, have redness? Any pain or sense of pressure? Blurry vision? Trouble driving at night into oncoming traffic? Don't be passive about your eyes' condition - tell the doctor.
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Tips & Warnings
You age and any existing medical conditions may require you to have an eye exam more than once a year. Ask you eye care professional.
Any abrupt or significant changes in your vision may be the symptom of a eye health issues - don't procrastinate. Schedule an appointment with your eye care professional as soon as possible.
