Frequently Asked Questions

General FAQ

Does my insurance cover an eye exam?
Many insurances cover routine eye exams, however, do check your specific insurance benefits. You will be financially responsible for payment of all co-pays, deductibles, and non-covered services.

Will my insurance cover both eyeglasses and contacts?
Usually not- it’s generally either or, not both. This is why we ask for all insurances so we can find the best way for you to maximize your benefits.

What do I need to bring for my appointment?
You will need a photo ID, all information for your insurances and medications. Please also bring any and all eyewear that you use such as your glasses, sunglasses, and contact lenses. If you have old records they are appreciated.

Can I come alone or do I need someone with me?
Unless you are a minor, generally have a caretaker or feel unable to drive after a dilation and want one done, you may come alone. Many people enjoy having a friend come with them to aid in selecting glasses and to ensure that if dilation is performed they can get home safely without having to worry about driving.

Do you speak other languages or provide translators?
Unfortunately no, at this time we are unable to provide multiple language support. There are many community health centers in our area however, and they have translating capabilities.

What happens if I’m late?
Patients who arrive more than 5 minutes late will be treated as walk-ins. We will still try to see you however, we will not disrupt the flow for patients who are on time or early for their scheduled appointments. At 10 minutes past we will consider you a no-show.

What is your no-show, cancellation policy?
You must contact us at least 8 business hours before your appointment to cancel without penalty. If you have two cancellations and/or no-shows we reserve the right to refuse future appointment requests.

What if you don’t take my vision insurance?
​​​​​​​Some insurances offer out of network benefits. Here are the most common that we do not take and how to file. Please keep in mind we are not in any way affiliated with these companies so though we try to help by providing this information they may change their process and/or rules.

Optical FAQ

Will my eyes get worse by wearing my glasses too much?
There is no evidence to support that any more than wearing shoes too much will worsen the feet. At young ages, it is important to wear the glasses as much as possible so newly forming nerves for vision can be properly developed. Later on, wearing glasses more often helps prevent eye strain and possible headaches from seeing blurry.

Does it make a difference where I get my glasses?
Your doctor’s prescription is just one factor in determining how well you see through your glasses. The quality of the lenses used and the fit of the frames can greatly influence your clarity of vision and comfort with your glasses. A skilled optician can help you select the best materials for your budget and ensure they are made properly.

Will I be able to see perfectly the day I pick up my new eyeglasses?
Depending on the amount of change in your new glasses, it may take your eyes a few days to adjust.

Why should I wear quality sunglasses?
Wearing sunglasses is like wearing sunscreen for your eyes. It’s not the darkness of the lenses that protects your eyes from the damaging effects of UV light; it’s the actual UV filter and sometimes the lens material that absorbs the UV. In fact, very dark sunglasses that do not have UV protection can actually damage your eyes!

Are polarized lenses the best option for reducing glare?
Polarized lenses are the best option for eliminating glare. Hunters, boaters, fisherman, golfers and drivers are just a few who can benefit from polarized lens’ glare blocking properties. Any surface can create glare in sunlight, especially water, snow, sand, windows, vehicles and buildings. Polarization eases eye strain in bright sunlight. Available in prescription, different colors, materials and designs.

What is an anti-reflective (AR) coating?
It is a special coating that reduces distracting reflections. The results are: more transmitted light, better quality of vision, improved night vision, and reduced eye fatigue. Great for working on a computer or for driving at night, these lenses also offer a cosmetically appealing “invisible lens look” that makes the lens “disappear” and shows your eye more clearly.

Exam FAQ

What will happen during an eye exam?
Your provider will check your vision and ocular health. You will be asked questions that relate to any problems you may have. Measurements will help determine any need for corrective wear such as contact lenses or glasses. Your ocular health will be checked for things such as cataracts, glaucoma, macular degeneration or other disorders. Eye drops may be used to enlarge (dilate) your pupils to facilitate viewing of the inside of your eyes. Medication may be prescribed for ocular problems or a referral may be suggested for conditions requiring further intervention, such as cataracts.

How long does a standard eye exam take?
A comprehensive eye examination may take from 30-45 minutes.

How do I know if I need an eye exam?
Most people should get their eyes tested every 1-2 years. If you have had a sudden loss of vision or change in vision in one or both of your eyes or if your eyes are red or painful you should be seen right away.

My vision is fine – why should I get an exam?
An eye exam will check your vision to see if you need glasses to help you see better, but will also look for any problems with the health of your eyes. Vision can change gradually over time so even when you feel like your vision is fine it may have changed enough that glasses will improve your vision. More importantly, an eye exam will check for any health problems in your eyes including cataracts, glaucoma or any circulation problem in the back of the eye (the retina). Often when these problems are found there are no symptoms. The sooner problems are found the better the long term outcome.

​​​​​​​What steps can I take to prevent my vision from getting worse?
Most, if not all, of the reason we need a correction such as glasses is due to genetics. The biggest control we all have in preventing worse vision is sound health practices. Avoiding trauma to the eye from UV light by wearing sunglasses when appropriate. Good nutrition to prevent diabetes – which can have a significant effect on the eyes. Having routine eye examinations including a dilated eye evaluation. Eyes will change over time, the best we can do is stay on top of the changes.