Should I Go to An Eye Doctor Near Me?

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EyeQue Team

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June 19, 2019

Eye doctor with patient

Last time you looked for an eye doctor, did you just search for “an eye doctor near me” in a search engine? You may not want to settle for the first person who pops up in your online search results. Here are some questions to consider before you choose an eye doctor:

Who is covered by your vision insurance?

If you have vision insurance, your plan may not cover all the eye doctors near you. Instead of using Google or Bing to find a convenient clinic, go to your insurance company’s website and search “an eye doctor near me” with their online search tool.

Which type of eye doctor do you need?

There are two types of eye doctors: optometrists and ophthalmologists. Optometrists are eye doctors that have a degree called Doctor of Optometry (OD). An optometrist usually completes a four-year college degree program in the sciences, plus four years of post-graduate professional training in optometry school. They are also required to take continuing education courses to maintain their license. They focus on the detection, treatment, and management of eye diseases.

A board-certified ophthalmologist has completed their medical residency and is legally allowed to accept patients. If you are considering a specific ophthalmologist, you can check with the American Board of Ophthalmology to be sure he or she is certified.

Do you need a specialist?

If you need to see an eye doctor because you have a specific condition, it’s important to find a specialist in the appropriate area. Here are some examples:

  • Refractive surgeons— Perform laser vision correction and other eye surgeries
  • Oculoplastic surgeons — Perform surgery for the structure around your eye, including eyelids, bones, and the tear drainage system
  • Neuro-ophthalmologists — Work on vision problems related to the brain
  • Pediatric ophthalmologists — Work with infants and children
  • Specialists who work with patients who have glaucoma, strabismus, and other conditions

Do you need an eye doctor right now?

While it is important to have a comprehensive eye exam conducted by an optometrist every so often, you can actually keep track of normal vision changes without having to schedule an eye doctor appointment. Learn how to use EyeQue VisionCheck to track your vision on a regular basis with your smartphone. You can even share your results with your eye doctor!

Save Time, Save Money, See Better

The EyeQue Vision Monitoring Kit combines two at-home vision test solutions. Test your refractive error with VisionCheck, and screen for distance, color, and contrast vision with the Insight. A pupillary distance tool, Bluetooth remote, and a soft-shell protective case are included.

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