Frequently Asked Questons
What is the difference between an optometrist and an ophthalmologist?
Both specialize in the eye. An Optometrist receives a doctorate degree from a certified optometry school and has to pass three sets of national board examinations before becoming licensed by a state board. Some optometrists choose to complete a one year residency post graduation. Optometrists manage refractive issues, such as nearsightedness, farsightedness and presbyopia with glasses and contact lenses. Optometrists also diagnose, treat and manage numerous ocular diseases such as glaucoma, macular degeneration, dry eye disease, infections, injuries, cataracts, etc. Optometrists can perform minor procedures such as removing foreign bodies. Optometrists in some states can perform certain laser procedures, injections and lesion removal.
An Ophthalmologist receives a doctorate degree from a certified medical school, where they received general education about the entire body. He/She then completes a residency in ophthalmology and or fellowships. They can sub-specialize in general ophthalmology, retina, cornea, neuro-ophthalmology, etc. An Ophthalmologist performs specialized surgeries on the eye, such as cataract removal, retinal detachment repair, corneal transplant, etc.
The best way to understand the difference is to think of an optometrist as your 'Primary Eyecare Provder'. An optometrist will refer you to an ophthalmologist if you develop a vision threatening problem.
What is the difference between vision insurance and medical insurance?
Vision insurance is a special policy that covers routine screening eye examinations and a portion of your eyeglass and or contact lens purchase.
Medical insurance covers medically related eyecare such as diabetic eye examinations, glaucoma, eye infections, removal of foreign bodies, treatment of dry eye, macular degeneration, cataract and much more.
Both insurances may be billed on the same day depending on the services provided at that visit. If the doctor sees something during an eye exam that requires further testing, the testing and management of that condition will be billed to your medical insurance. Your 'Vision' insurance does not cover any medical eye issues and your 'Medical' plan does not cover any vision issues that can be treated with glasses and/or contact lenses.
Why do I have to pay my medical copay at each visit?
Your insurance company requires all doctors to collect your copay each time we see you. The copay is not a tip, but is subtracted from the insurance company's reimbursement for that day of service.
Why am I getting a bill?
Most insurance plans have copays, deductibles and coinsurance that gets applies to the billed charges. Depending on the particular plan, the doctor may not know that you owe extra money until after the claim is processed.
Why do I have to have a separate contact lens exam?
Contact lenses are considered a medical device that is regulated by the FDA. Each state has different laws in reference to contact lenses. In the state of Pennsylvania contact lens prescriptions are only good for one year. During a contact lens exam the doctor evaluates the fit of the contact lens in relation to your eye anatomy, fine tunes the value of the prescription and makes sure that your eyes are not developing any complications from contact lens wear.
Can I return glasses or contact lenses once I have purchased them?
If you are having a problem with your contact lenses at any time, please contact the office and we will set up a follow up appointment. If we need to adjust the contact lenses prescription after you received your supply, we will work with you to rectify the issue. Un-opened boxes can be returned to the manufacturer within a certain time frame but there may be a restocking fee.
Prescription eyewear is a custom-made product specific to your prescription and measurements. It is not unusual to feel strange when you first put on a new pair of glasses. Your brain has to get used to the new prescription and for some patients it may take a week or two to adapt. If you are having trouble adjusting to your new glasses, please call the office or stop in for an adjustment. Be aware that most vision insurance plans have rules regarding remakes and time limitations, so please stay in contact with the office if you are having any issues.
Why should I get an eye exam on a regular basis?
There is a saying ' The eyes are the window to the Soul'. Well, there is some truth to that. Your ocular health can be a representation of your systemic health. An eye exam can reveal undiagnosed systemic issues such as diabetes, hypertension, high cholesterol, cancer, vascular disease, autoimmune disease and much more. Routine eye exams screen for not only vision clarity issues but also potentially vision threatening diseases such as glaucoma, macular degeneration, ocular tumors and much more. Many of these issues will not have symptoms until the disease has entered the moderate to severe stage. You only get two eyes for a lifetime so treat them well and get an exam each year.
I have been diagnosed with Macular Degeneration. Will I go blind?
Macular Degeneration is a retinal disease that affects a particular region of the retina called the macula. This region is responsible for providing us with sharp 20/20 central vision. Any disorder that affects this area can cause a reduction in clarity of the central 15 degrees of our visual field; however, the remainder of the retina is unaffected by the disease. Most patients with macular degeneration do not experience severe visual deficits. Patients with severe end stage macular degeneration will have a black spot in their central vision but will see peripherally. These patients still live a productive life and can do many of their normal activities. Driving, reading, watching TV are most affected.
I have been diagnosed with Glaucoma. Will I go blind?
Glaucoma is a disease where the pressure in the eye is too high, which causes damage to the optic nerve. Most patients are diagnosed with glaucoma in the very early stages before significant damage has occured. As long as you follow the treatment program set up by your doctor and maintain follow-up appointments, the chance of significant vision loss is very low. For most patients, Glaucoma is managed easily with daily eyedrops. When drops do not slow the progression enough there are minimally invasive laser and surgical procedures available to further control the disease.
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