Choosing an eye care doctor is an important health care decision - just as important as selecting a general health physician. After all, you will be trusting this person to protect your sight.
Because vision is an essential part of everyday life, your choice of a good eye doctor is not one that should be taken lightly. Here are a few factors to help you choose an eye doctor that’s right for you.
What Type of Eye Doctor Is Right For You?
The first step in your decision is to understand the difference between eye doctors and consider the type of care you need. Three different types of eye care professionals include:
Optometrist: Optometrists examine eyes for both vision and health problems, and correct vision issues by prescribing eyeglasses and contact lenses. In addition, they can treat and manage ocular medical conditions with medications. Some optometrists also provide low vision care and vision therapy.
Ophthalmologists: An ophthalmologist is a medical doctor who specializes in eyecare. Ophthalmologists are trained to perform eye exams, diagnose and treat disease, prescribe medications, and perform surgery.
Optician: Although not an eye doctor, opticians are still an important part of your eye care team. Opticians use written prescriptions to fit and sell eyeglasses and other eyewear. There are no diagnoses conducted by opticians, but they ensure that patient prescriptions are correctly applied when putting together their corrective eyewear.
Consider the type of care you need when selecting an eye doctor that’s right for you. Knowing the differences between the different types of eye care specialists is a good first step!
Factors to Look for When Choosing an Eye Doctor
Sooner or later, everyone visits a vision care professional. The important thing is choosing the right one. Here are a few factors to consider when making your selection.
Reputation: A major factor you should consider when choosing an eye doctor is the recommendation of that doctor by friends, family members or coworkers. Word-of-mouth referrals are often the most reliable way to find a friendly, competent, and caring eye doctor. Checking online reviews can also help you avoid unpleasant surprises during your eye examination.
Qualifications: Qualifications matter, especially if you’re already dealing with a medical eye problem (such as glaucoma, macular degeneration, or cataracts). As you’re looking through your local list of eye doctors, be sure to check their credentials to ensure they have the relevant experience you need.
Technology: Technology has gone to unprecedented heights, but many eye doctors still use old, outdated equipment. Make sure your eye doctor offers equipment that produces efficient, accurate results. Eye doctors that offer the best technology often provide the best care.
Affordability: While you don't want to choose an eye doctor based on cost alone, it is an important factor to consider. Determine if they are an authorized provider under your insurance plan, and what your out-of-pocket expense will be for the exam. If you don't have an insurance policy that covers eye care, find out the eye doctor's fee for a routine exam and for any special testing that may be required.
Always keep these factors in mind when making an appointment. These will help you choose an eye doctor that can provide you with a lifetime of good vision.
Contact Eden Prairie Eye Care For Your Vision Needs
At Eden Prairie Eye Care, Dr. Oker goes above and beyond to ensure all your vision needs are met. Using the latest technology, her team can provide you with efficient, accurate results while maintaining your comfort and safety. Plus, we have many 5-star reviews to back up our reputation!
To schedule your appointment, contact us at (952) 944-2792 or via our online platform today!
