Just like you visit your primary care doctor each year to keep up with your physical health, you should also have an annual eye exam to keep up with your eye health. In fact, having an eye exam each year is important to your overall health. It is where the first signs of serious heart conditions, like high blood pressure, may show up. The eye is also the only area of the body where a doctor can have a clear view of blood vessels!
Here is some advice to help you prepare for your annual eye exam:
Schedule An Exam
First, you have to schedule an exam! To get the most out of your vision benefits, you’ll want to visit an in-network provider. These providers agree to preset fees for service, which are usually less than typical charges. That’s one reason why in-network vision exams can save you money.
Don’t Arrive Empty Handed
In addition to your insurance card, don’t forget to bring the following:
- Your specs: If you wear glasses or contact lenses, be sure to bring those with you. That goes for those reading glasses you picked up at the drugstore! And don’t forget your prescription if it was given by another doctor.
- List of health issues: Write down any issues you’ve had with your eyes including injuries, surgeries or pain. Consider any trouble you have seeing distances, colors or at night. You’ll also want to share any health conditions like headaches or migraines, high blood pressure or major diagnoses.
- List of medications: Be prepared to share a list of any prescribed medications or vitamins you take and what dosages. The eye doctor will be able to recognize if the medications affect your vision and help them to diagnose conditions.
- Paperwork: Often times the office will send over paperwork for you to fill out. Completing the paperwork in advance, either electronically or in print, will save time when you arrive at check-in.
- Doctor Contact(s): Have your primary care doctor’s information ready to share with your eye doctor. If a larger health issue is detected, they can send records and notes directly to your doctor.
What to Expect
The eye exam includes a variety of tests performed by a technician. This includes the “puff-of-air” test to measure the pressure in your eyes, a test to reveal any areas of limited peripheral vision and a test to view the back of the eye (which may require dilation). Additionally, the doctor will do the standard eye chart exam and also look at the eye with a microscope.
Based on the exam results, your doctor will recommend a solution to your vision care needs and discuss any overall health concerns.
Annual eye exams allow your eye doctor to watch how your health changes over time and play an important role in your overall wellness. If you haven’t done it yet, take charge of your health and schedule your annual eye exam today!
