How long will my appointment take?
The average consultation requires 1-1/2 to 2 hours. If special testing is required, you can expect a little more time. We make every effort to follow closely to our patients’ scheduled times. Please arrive at your scheduled time, and call us if you will be delayed.
What if I need to reschedule my appointment?
For the convenience of our other patients, we would appreciate 24 hours notice of your cancellation. We generally can reschedule your appointment within a few days.
What can I expect during my visit?
In addition to the name of the optometrist or other doctor who referred you to us, we would like the name, address and phone number of your primary physician.
Once your registration is completed, you will be taken into a consultation room and a technician will ask you questions that provide us with basic information about you, your eyes, any medical problems, and your visual complaint. One of our ophthalmic technicians will take some preliminary measurements of your eyes and your eyesight.
After the preliminary testing, you will see the doctor to evaluate your eyes. Following that, the doctor may instill eye drops to dilate your pupils. Dilation of the pupils is usually necessary in order to completely examine your eyes. It takes about 20 to 30 minutes for your pupils to fully dilate after the drops have been given. When your pupils are fully dilated, you will again be examined by the doctor. Do not hesitate to ask questions about your eye condition or its treatment. Depending upon the nature of your problem, additional tests will be performed the same day as your consultation. A complete report of your consultation and any test results will be sent to both your optometrist and primary physician.
What should I wear?
Because of the sensitivity of our equipment, we must maintain a temperature of 68 degrees F. This feels quite cool to most people so please dress comfortably for a cool environment.
Will I be able to drive after my eyes are dilated?
Dilating your pupils with eye drops does cause temporary blurring of vision and increased light sensitivity. You may be more comfortable having someone accompany you to the office so that he or she can drive you home, but you are not required to have a driver. We suggest that you bring a pair of dark sunglasses. The major effect of the eye drops generally wears off after 6-8 hours in most people.
What types of insurance are accepted?
We participate in most medical insurance plans, including Medicare. If you have a question about your individual medical insurance plan, please feel free to call and inquire prior to your appointment. If you have an HMO insurance, please call your primary physician and request the referral prior to the appointment. If we do not have your referral on the day of your scheduled appointment, we may need to reschedule your exam.
What should I bring with me for my appointment?
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• Medical Insurance cards
• Your Eyedrops & a Current List of Medications
• Eyeglasses, if you wear them
• Sunglasses (or a driver) for eye dilation
• A jacket or sweater – like all other surgical facilities, our office is cold!
• If you have an HMO insurance, bring your referral