Routine eye examinations are often the cornerstone to preventing future disease.

What happens during an eye examination?
The Doctors at Southwest Eyecare and their assistants will review your current symptoms as well as your past eye and medical history.

If your eyes are healthy, but you are experiencing problems with your vision, you may only need eyeglasses or contacts to correct the problem.

Your Insurance:
If the primary reason for your visit is strictly to update your prescription for corrective lenses, your visit is considered "routine". Your fee for a routine visit is due at the time of service. If you have Vision Insurance, we will give you the necessary information for you to file a claim for reimbursement of that fee. We do not file claims with any vision plans.

If the reason for your visit is of a medical nature, our doctors participate in most medical plans and as a courtesy to our patients; we will file a claim with your health plan.

The exam evaluates:

• Visual Acuity
   
• Need for glasses or contact lenses
• Eye muscle coordination
• Response of your pupils to light
• Side (Peripheral) vision
• Risk of glaucoma
• Eyelids
• Inside of the eye using optical instruments

Southwest Eyecare Office Visit Procedures

The average time for a comprehensive eye examination is 90 minutes. Please allow ample time. Most patients will receive dilating drops to allow the doctor to examine the interior of the eye. During this examination the doctor will test for cataracts, glaucoma and any retinal or corneal disease. The dilating drops may blur your vision for reading or desk work for approximately 4 hours. Distant vision is usually not a problem. After we apply dilating drops, your eyes may be sensitive to sunlight. Disposable sunglasses will be provided if needed.

Treatment or follow up examinations require 30 to 60 minutes.

On your first visit we will begin a permanent record. For your protection, we must know the condition of your general health before treatment can be started. Therefore, we ask that you bring a list of your present medications and your most recent pair of glasses, even if they are damaged. Our front desk staff will help you complete a brief medical history and information form. Please bring all of your insurance cards.

Records about your care are held in the strictest of confidence and will be released only when we have your permission in writing, or in the course of medical treatment.