How to Choose a Good Eye Doctor
Your eyes are not only a window to the
world around you, but they are also a window to your overall health. Choosing
your eye doctor should be as important as choosing your primary healthcare
physician. Since your eyesight is an essential part of your everyday life,
choosing the right eye doctor for you and your family should not be taken
lightly. Here are things to consider when choosing your eye doctor:
Seek the Right Support
When it’s time to get your eyes checked,
it’s important to see the correct eye care professional for you and your
family’s needs. According to the American Academy of Ophthalmology, there are three types of eye care
providers: ophthalmologists, optometrists, and opticians. Make sure you know which
support you need before searching based on other factors.
Here's a quick overview of the three
types of eye care providers:
●
Ophthalmologists (Eye M.D.) are medical or osteopathic
doctors who specialize in eye and vision care. Ophthalmologists differ from
optometrists and opticians in their levels of training and in what they can
diagnose and treat. Ophthalmologists diagnose and treat all eye diseases, and
perform eye surgery. They also prescribe and fits eyeglasses and contact lenses
to correct vision problems.
●
Optometrists provide primary vision care ranging from
sight testing and correction to the diagnosis, treatment, and management of
vision changes. An optometrist, while considered a healthcare professional, is
not a medical doctor.
●
Opticians are technicians trained to design, verify, and
fit eyeglass lenses and frames, contact lenses, and other devices to correct
eyesight.
Ask for Recommendations
Once you’ve determined which eye care
professional you need, seek out recommendations and referrals. Chances are you
know someone who wears contacts or glasses and visits their eye care
professional regularly for vision support. A study by The
Vision Council reveals that 75% of Americans rely on corrective lenses
in some capacity. Asking your friends, family members, and colleagues for
recommendations is a great starting point in finding a provider that’s perfect
for your needs.
Research the Reviews
In addition to asking around, do your own
research in your provider search by seeking out ratings and reviews. Think
about how you look at restaurant reviews online before deciding to eat there
and apply the same process in choosing an eye care provider. Eye Doctor Review and Healthgrades are some good sites to start with.
Compare Prices
While eye health is essential to your
overall wellbeing, you don’t want your visit to negatively affect your
financial wellbeing. The price of the new patient visit and exam, eyewear, and
annual exam should be factors included in your initial research. However, you
may discover that paying a little more will result in higher quality service.
Review Qualifications
While credentials aren’t everything, they
can provide insight into an eye care professional’s quality - especially if you
need an ophthalmologist or optometrist. A specialty degree from a top
university says volumes about their knowledge and dedication. When researching
a potential provider, always ask for their education and work history. The best
providers, however, combine their expertise with experience and a warm,
positive “chair aide” manner.
At Carson Optical, we focus on you. Our knowledge and
expertise allow us to blend personal communication with precision eyewear
fitting techniques. Family-owned and -operated since 1972, we keep the highest
standards in customer service year after year. We look forward to building a
relationship with you. To schedule an appointment, call 813-681-3863 or fill
out our online request form.
Sources
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