Comprehensive Eye Exams

What is included in your Comprehensive Eye Examination?

During your eye check up, we listen.

One of our highly trained technicians at Cascadia Eye will document any current concerns and past eye problems. We will also go over your health history to include medications. This is a necessary step to insure all your concerns are noted and that a health record will be available for future visits.

We look at the overall health of the eye.

The technician will check your pupils for symmetry and reaction to light, as well as document their size and any abnormalities. Eye muscle function tests and a visual field test (peripheral vision) are also given. Depth perception and color tests are given to children under 12.

We look closely at the eye surface.

Your lids and lashes are evaluated by viewing with a strong magnifier, and any bumps, lumps, or abnormalities are documented for the doctor’s further examination. Your tear film, cornea, and iris are also examined and documented. Sometimes, additional tear production tests are indicated based on your concerns or what we see.

We check your eye pressure.

Intraocular pressure is taken as a screening for glaucoma. Glaucoma is typically caused by increased intraocular pressure (pressure within the eye) due to an inability of fluid to drain properly. In this condition, the optic nerve, a delicate and vulnerable part of your eye, can become damaged. Since this often begins without noticeable symptoms, regular eye exams to detect early stages of glaucoma should be a crucial part of your regular healthcare. Glaucoma and any elevated readings are re-assessed and further evaluated by the doctor. Sometimes, if indicated by findings or history, an additional test to measure your corneal thickness is done.

We give you the best glasses prescription possible.

Visual acuity with your current glasses is taken. The prescription of your current glasses is measured to compare with any new findings from today’s examination. This portion of your eye exam is your “refraction.” Typically, medical insurance plans do not pay for the refraction portion of your exam. Eye refractions are necessary not only for prescribing glasses and contact lenses, but also for determining whether you have eye disease. Even if you do not wish for or need glasses, the refraction is an essential part of your complete eye examination. If you wear contact lenses, they are evaluated under magnification to be sure they fit well and are in good condition (contact lens fittings and re-fittings are separate services).

We look inside.*

To obtain a clear look at your retina and lens, the doctor will examine and assess your eye health after your eyes have been dilated. The doctor will also review and verify the findings of the tests performed and documented by the technician and optician. Any problems are addressed and explained, as well as any required medications, tests or procedures. Further tests are scheduled as needed. You are encouraged to ask the doctor any questions you may have and you will be given a glasses prescription if one is needed.

*Dilated exam not necessarily part of a “vision” exam.

We bill your medical insurance.

Usually, if you are over 50 or have a family history of certain eye problems, or if you have conditions such as diabetes, or if you use certain medications, your eye exam is medical in nature (not vision) even though we will provide you with an updated glasses prescription. In cases where your eyes are completely healthy, no complaints by you and no findings by the doctor, we may be able to bill your vision plan directly or potentially coordinate benefits between your medical and vision plans.

We follow up.

Annual comprehensive eye exams are advised for patients over 65 or under 20, and for those with diabetes or glaucoma. Patients who wear contact lens and patients with unstable glasses prescriptions should also be seen on an annual basis. All other patients would benefit from an eye examination every two years. We send you reminder letters as recommended by the doctors.

For more information, or if you would like to schedule your comprehensive eye exam, please contact Cascadia Eye today.

Contact Cascadia Eye

If you would like to learn more, or if you would like to schedule an appointment at Cascadia Eye, please contact us today. We are happy to answer any questions you might have!

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