What to Expect

Why do so many people skip their annual eye exam? We believe it’s because they don’t know what to expect. For this reason, we feel it’s important to outline the process so you can feel comfortable knowing there’s nothing to worry about.

Upon your arrival, our receptionist will welcome you as a member of our practice. We will ask you to complete a few forms. If you prefer to complete them in advance in the comfort of your home, the forms may be found in the Patient Center. This paperwork provides us with your health history and other information related to providing you with the best vision solutions.

Why is my personal background important? Your doctor will review any current vision problems, your general health, as well as discuss your hobbies and lifestyle requirements to better tailor the examination to your needs.

What should I bring with me to my appointment?

• Current Medication List. Please be sure to bring a list of your current medications to your appointment so your doctor can review them with you, as there are many medications that may have an impact on your vision and ocular health.
• Your Eyeglasses. If you wear glasses, bring them with you. We will verify the prescription in your current glasses, clean them for you and check them for potential problems.
• Contact Lenses. If you are being seen for a contact lens examination, please be sure to wear your contact lenses to your appointment. If possible, bring the box your contact lenses came in with you.
• Insurance Cards. It is important that you have your vision and/or health insurance cards with you so we can better assist you.
• Welcome Forms. You can save time by printing out and completing your patient information form in advance of your appointment. You can find the welcome form in the Patient Center.

What can I expect from the overall exam?

Our doctors are experienced in managing the eye care needs of every member of your family-from infants to adults. Not all eye examinations are the same. You’ll find that our doctors will carefully and accurately determine your eyeglass prescription through a series of tests designed with your specific needs in mind. Your doctor will evaluate the function of each eye and how well they work together as a team. Additionally, we are equipped with state-of-the-art instrumentation to provide you with a thorough ocular health examination to detect ocular conditions such as cataracts, glaucoma, macular degeneration and dry eyes.

What if I have an eye emergency?

Our doctors are available to help you twenty four hours a day, seven days a week. We treat ocular diseases and conditions including glaucoma, ocular injuries, conjunctivitis and pink eye and are better equipped to handle most urgent eye problems than the emergency room or general care physician’s office. In addition, our doctors work closely with several talented surgeons in the event you require a surgical procedure and will participate in your care as you recover. Medical visits to our office are typically covered by your medical insurance plan.

Why does the doctor ask me, “Which is better, one or two?”

Your doctor will ask these questions during the portion of the examination when your prescription is established. He or she will ask you to compare a series of lenses to determine which is clearer for you. As the differences become less noticeable, the doctor will be closer to finalizing your prescription. For this reason, if you’re having a hard time choosing between the options, it’s a good thing!

Is it necessary for my doctor to dilate my pupils during the exam?

Pupil dilation is most often a necessary part of the eye examination. This painless process is like opening a door so the doctor can fully examine the retina. Dilation of the pupils can help detect diseases like diabetes, high blood pressure and macular degeneration. Your doctor will make this decision to dilate your eyes during your exam. The dilation may make your eyes more sensitive to light, so you may wish to bring sunglasses with you.