Preparing for an eye exam does not have to be difficult or complicated. But, it is an important way to get the most out of your visit. A comprehensive vision exam includes much more than just determining if you need glasses or a new prescription. The exam provides us the opportunity to get a complete evaluation on your vision, eye health, focusing ability and how well your eyes work together.
Through a series of tests, we are able to detect both obvious and underlying issues and suggest the appropriate options for correcting any visual concerns. The more complete information we have, the more accurate results we can obtain. That’s why preparing for an eye exam ahead of time matters. Here’s what you should do before you arrive for your appointment.
DO Bring your Current Insurance Information
We want to make sure as many people as possible are able to receive the vision care they need, and that’s why we work many vision insurance providers. Bringing your most up-to-date information allows us to properly submit your claim. If you do not have insurance, we can still work with you! Be sure to contact us before your appointment to determine the best alternative payment options to help with your care.
DO Gather Complete Medical History
Part of properly preparing for an eye exam includes gathering vital medical information, including a list of current medications, and as complete of a family medical history as possible. This information gives us a clearer picture of possible prescription side effects, increased risk factors for certain conditions, and helps us more accurately interpret test results.
DON’T Forget to Bring your Current Glasses or Contact Lenses
Before coming to the office, gather all of the glasses you wear, including reading glasses, prescription sunglasses, computer glasses, etc. We want to see what lenses you currently have, how they are working, what needs improvement, as well as compare the new prescription to the old one. If you wear contacts, don’t wear them to the appointment, but do bring the box with so we can note the brand, lens type, power, base curve, and diameter if possible. This information helps us evaluate your current fit and discuss whether another option may better suit your comfort or vision needs.
DO Make a List of Questions and Visual Concerns
Sitting in a medical office can be an intimidating experience. We try to make the environment here as relaxing and welcoming as possible, but we know that trying to focus on participating in the exam can make you forget important questions you wanted to ask. When preparing for an eye exam, write down any questions you may have about your eye health, benefits of vision therapy programs for school or sports, or even suggestions for a different shape frame for your glasses. If you have experienced any concerning symptoms like frequent headaches, difficulty focusing, light sensitivity, floaters or flashes or balance issues, be sure to let us know during your appointment.
DON’T Squeeze the Appointment into a Packed Day
We understand that schedules get very busy, and we appreciate that you are making time for your eye health. However, if possible, try to schedule your appointment during a time when you are not feeling especially rushed or preoccupied with other impending tasks for the day. Allow yourself the chance to take your time when answering questions and participating in the evaluation, as well as asking any follow-up questions. Also, if your eyes are dilated for the exam, this can increase light sensitivity which can make driving to additional appointments more difficult.
Preparing For an Eye Exam is Important for the Best Experience
At Family Vision Development Center, we want to make sure all of our patients receive the best possible care at every visit. Whether it’s your first time here or your tenth, properly preparing ahead of time can make a world of difference in your overall experience. Contact us at 630-862-2020 with any additional questions or to get your appointment scheduled as soon as possible.
Family Vision Development Center is a full-service vision center offering innovative vision therapy services, sports vision therapy services, post-concussive vision rehabilitation, comprehensive vision exams for eyeglasses and contact lenses, management of ocular diseases including glaucoma, diabetes, macular degeneration and cataracts, and a state-of-the-art optical center offering the latest designs in eyewear.