What to Look for in an Optometrist
Figuring out what to look for in an optometrist can seem daunting when you’re first starting out. But it doesn’t have to be. Here are some simple ways to figure out whether or not someone you’re considering to take care of the vision and eye health of you and your family is a good fit.
What can your optometrist do for you?
Before choosing an eye doctor, it’s a good idea to know what they can do in the first place and make sure they’re open to answering any questions you might have. Optometrists are Doctors of Optometry and had to obtain a post graduate university degree to gain that designation.
They are qualified to screen for vision problems, diseases of the eye and vision abnormalities. Routine eye exams can uncover signs of general health problems that can sometimes tip you off to their presence via eye issues – conditions that sometimes show up in this manner include high blood pressure (hypertension) and diabetes. Optometrists are also experts at helping you to manage many causes of troubled vision, including near-sightedness, far-sightedness, and astigmatism.
Look for an optometrist who is well-regarded in the community
Ask family, friends, and even your family doctor who they’d say are the best optometrists near you. Another great source of information is the local regulatory body that’s responsible for issuing their license to practice.
Find an eye doctor who is conveniently located
If at all possible, try to find an optometrist who is located in an area that’s easy for you to reach. Also, if you’ll be driving there, ensure they have convenient parking available, preferably free of charge. You’ll be happy you did this the next time you have to make a trip to see them!
Make sure their office hours suit your schedule
Double check when they are usually open for appointments. If you work Monday to Friday and find it difficult to book time off for an appointment, look for an optometrist who is open on Saturdays, or later than the typical 5 p.m. closing time on weekdays. Finally, it’s a bonus if they can see you for emergencies that occur during their regular office hours – ask if they are booked solid weeks in advance, or if they set aside time to accommodate emergency visits when needed.
Find out if they can bill your insurance directly
Dealing with insurance is a hassle, and if your optometrist is willing to handle it for you, this is a huge benefit to you in terms of time saved from having to fill out forms and mail in receipts every time you see your optometrist. Ask if your optometrist can bill your insurance company directly and save you the trouble of doing so yourself.
Go for a test visit
You’ll never be 100% sure of whether or not an optometrist is a good fit for you until you see them in person. Make an appointment for an eye exam and see how it goes.
During your visit, you can assess whether or not their personality makes you feel comfortable. Also, be sure to ask a few questions and see if they answer them to your satisfaction – it’s important that they have the patience to answer your questions too, since you don’t want to feel like an annoyance when you need to ask for information. Make sure the front office staff is friendly and approachable. Check if the offices are clean and professional-looking.
Now that you know what to look for in an optometrist, you’ll be well on your way to finding the perfect one for you
Don’t put off the important task of finding a knowledgeable eye doctor that you can trust with they eye health of your family – and one that makes you feel at ease. They are a key member of your healthcare team and will help you to keep your eyes in tip-top shape, for life!