ABOUT YOUR VISIT

Detect Eye Problems Before You Have Symptoms

Eye exams aren’t only for people with poor vision. They’re an important way of detecting eye problems before you have symptoms. Eye doctors can also catch other health problems — like diabetes and glaucoma— early.

What to bring

  • Completed registration forms
  • Current insurance cards
  • Co-pay for specialists as noted on your insurance card
  • Referrals from your primary care physician if your insurance requires one in order to see a specialist. (NOTE: Without a proper referral, payment will be due at the time of the office visit.)
  • A list of medications and eye drops that you are currently taking
  • If you usually wear contact lenses, please wear your glasses instead. If you must wear your contact lenses, please bring your own case and lens solution.
  • A valid photo identification card
  • Your eyes will be dilated for the examination. Dilation may cause blurry vision or light sensitivity. We recommend bringing sunglasses. If you do not have sunglasses, disposable sunglasses are available at the front desk.

WHAT TO EXPECT

  • After filling out paperwork, you’ll go to the examining room to meet the doctor. Here are some things you can expect.
  • You will be asked about your general health, medicines you are taking and any family history of eye diseases.
  • You’ll read from charts of random letters. Your doctor may also test other aspects of your vision, such as your peripheral (side) vision, and color perception. You will be tested to check the pressure in your eye with a device called a tonometer. Tonometry tests for glaucoma.
  • The exam will closely evaluate different parts of your eye with a device similar to a microscope called a slit lamp.
  • You will probably get drops to dilate your eyes: to make the pupils open wide. This will help your doctor get a clear view of the inside of your eye, most notably the retina and macula. Dilation makes your eyes sensitive to light for a few hours. You’ll need to bring sunglasses and wear them after the exam until the drops wear off. You may need someone to drive you home if you do not feel safe driving.
  • Depending on your eye condition, you may need other additional tests or exams.

PATIENT FORMS

Patient Information Form

Patient Family Eye History

Acknowledgment of Receipt of Notice of Privacy Practices

Medicare Authorization