Even if your vision is 20/20, it’s essential to keep in mind that everyone requires a comprehensive eye exam periodically. Nonetheless, how often you or a member of your family should have one depends on several factors. A patient’s age, family and personal medical histories, a previous eye injury, existing eye conditions, and environmental or occupational factors influence the recommended frequency.
The American Optometric Association offers the following guidelines:
Children – Children should receive an eye exam at between 6 months to 12 months of age, once between the ages of 3 and five, before entering first grade and then annually thereafter. However, in the presence of certain risk factors or diagnosed vision issues and impairments, the recommended exam schedule may differ.
Adults – In the absence of risk factors, adults between the ages of 18 to 39 years should schedule an eye exam at least once every two years. Because several eye diseases can develop with age, a baseline eye exam is recommended at the age of 40. A patient’s risk factors determine the recommended schedule between the ages of 40 and 64 years. At-risk adults over 40 may require annual or more frequent eye exams. For low-risk adults, the eye doctor may determine that an exam every two years may suffice. For adults 65 and older, annual exams are recommended.
It’s essential to remember to bring your current eyeglasses or contact lenses prescription to your visit. If you also wear reading glasses, computer glasses, protective eyewear, or other visual aids, you may want to bring these as well. Because getting your pupils dilated can leave you sensitive to light for several hours following your appointment, it’s wise to bring sunglasses to the appointment.
In addition to your medical and eye health history, you will be asked about your family’s eye health history and any contributing factors that may increase your risk of eye disease. As best you can, be prepared with this information. It’s also helpful to have a comprehensive list of any medications that you are taking. Remember to bring your medical insurance and vision insurance card and information along to your visit.
If you have questions or concerns about your eye health and vision, an eye exam visit offers an excellent opportunity to discuss what's on your mind and get helpful eye care tips and guidance.
It’s essential to keep in mind that vision screenings take a very basic look at your eyesight and are not used to diagnose or treat vision problems. They are designed to merely detect them and are often performed by a school nurse or pediatrician. While a vision screening may be useful in identifying a vision impairment that requires further care, it is by no means a substitute for a comprehensive eye exam. As a rule, the only way to precisely detect and diagnose any vision abnormalities or identify the presence of eye disease is through a comprehensive and in-person eye exam.
If you have vision insurance, you can expect to have coverage for some aspects of care. While every vision plan offers specific benefits, they generally offer some coverage for routine care such as annual exams and eyewear. If your eye condition qualifies as a medical issue, some coverage under your medical insurance may apply. At the office of Charm City Optical & Eye Care Center, we strive to optimize your insurance benefits and minimize your out-of-pocket expenses. Although our financial office is well versed in the complexities of insurance coverage, it’s always a good idea to review your specific benefits with your HR department or insurance carrier.
At the office of Charm City Optical & Eye Care Center, we welcome patients of all ages and offer a comprehensive range of vision care services and products to help every member of your family protect the health of their eyes and enjoy optimal sight. We use the most advanced technology and proven treatment methods to deliver precise, gentle, and effective care. Whether you or any member of your family require an eye exam, prescription lenses, protective eyewear, contacts, and hard-to-fit contact lenses to pre and post-LASIK care or other eye care services, we’re well equipped to help.
For more information on our office and the many services we provide, give us a call today.
Located in the heart of Baltimore, Charm City Optical & Eye Care Center offers a convenient location with a commitment to excellence. We invite you to schedule an appointment and experience the difference of exceptional eye care, where advanced technology meets personalized service and unparalleled style.
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