Common questions about eye exams include: How much does an Eye Exam Cost in New Smyrna Beach? How frequently should I have my eyes examined? What should I bring with me to my exam?
These guidelines can help you prepare for your next (or first) eye exam The first step in preparing for an eye exam is finding an eye doctor near you. You should call their office to see if they take your vision insurance, if you have it. Eye Exam Cost in New Smyrna Beach can vary greatly along with the level of services provided.
Eye Exam Cost
Eye exams are available through several different venues, including an independent eye doctor’s office, the eye department of a multidisciplinary medical clinic, a group eye care practice (optometrists, ophthalmologists or both), and at an optical retailer or optical shop that also offers eye exams by an affiliated optometrist.
Also, large retailers like Walmart, Costco and Target have optical departments where you can receive an eye exam. of an Eye Exam Cost in New Smyrna Beach can vary significantly, based on where you live and other factors, including:
-
Whether the exam is performed by an optometrist or an ophthalmologist
-
The tests that are included in the exam
-
Whether the exam includes a contact lens fitting or other contact lens-related services
Generally, the cost of an eye exam can range from about $50 (usually at a retail store or optical chain, performed by an optometrist) to $250 or more (usually at a medical clinic or private eye doctor’s office). Also, eye exams for contact lenses nearly always cost more than routine exams to check your general eye health and update your eyeglasses prescription.
When comparing how much an eye exam costs, be sure you are comparing “apples to apples.” A comprehensive eye exam should include at least the following:
-
A review of your personal and family health history and any history of eye problems
-
Evaluation of your distance and near vision with an eye chart
-
Evaluation for the presence of nearsightedness, farsightedness, astigmatism and presbyopia
-
Near vision testing to determine if you have presbyopia and need progressive lenses or bifocals
-
Evaluation of your eyes’ ability to work together as a team
-
An eye pressure test and examination of the optic nerve to rule out glaucoma
-
Examination of the interior of your eyes to rule out other eye problems, such as cataracts and macular degeneration
Contact lens exams typically include additional tests and procedures beyond those noted above.
Be sure to ask what tests are included when you obtain information about eye exam costs. Some locations will advertise a low exam fee, but upon arrival you may be informed you must pay extra if you want certain procedures — such as pupil dilation, retinal photos, etc. — that may be included in a higher exam fee quoted elsewhere.
Certain “intangibles” should be considered when you compare eye exam costs. These might include: the professionalism and friendliness of the doctor and staff; the level of training of the doctor’s assistants; how long you must wait to be seen; how advanced (or outdated) the exam equipment is; the convenience of the office location; and hours of operation.
It’s also a good idea when choosing an eye doctor to ask friends for referrals and to “shop around” first via a personal visit to the office before scheduling an exam.
Many vision insurance plans, including Medicare, cover at least a portion of eye exam services. Check to see what your benefits are and what doctors participate in your plan before you make an appointment. Then be sure to give the doctor’s office your insurance information when scheduling your exam to avoid any misunderstandings about your coverage. It is very important you contact the doctors office to get an idea of what an Eye Exam Cost in New Smyrna Beach will be.
