What is an Optometrist?

The Canadian Association of Optometrists (CAO) defines an optometrist, or Doctor of Optometry, as an independent primary health care provider with expertise in examining, diagnosing, treating, managing, and preventing diseases and disorders related to the visual system, the eyes, and their associated structures. Additionally, optometrists are skilled in identifying ocular manifestations of systemic conditions.

Optometrists fulfill several key responsibilities as primary eye care providers, including:

1. Examination of the Eye: Using various methods (excluding surgery) to diagnose, treat, and/or refer abnormal eye conditions. They work in coordination with physicians and other healthcare professionals to ensure comprehensive care.
2. Use of Instruments and Procedures: Employing specialized tools and techniques to measure, examine, and diagnose visual defects or eye abnormalities.
3. Prescription of Corrective Devices: Prescribing, fitting, and applying glasses, contact lenses, or other devices to correct, relieve, or treat visual impairments.
4. Management of Visual Health: Overseeing and managing therapy to improve or monitor visual health, including follow-up care.
5. Patient Referrals: Referring patients to other healthcare practitioners when necessary for further evaluation or treatment.

Optometrists play a crucial role in maintaining eye health and overall visual function, working both independently and collaboratively with other healthcare providers.

How Often should I get a Eye Examinations?

Regular eye examinations are essential for maintaining optimal vision and ocular health because many vision and eye conditions do not present noticeable symptoms until they have progressed. Early detection through timely eye exams can prevent more serious issues and ensure effective treatment.

Your optometrist will schedule follow-up appointments based on your specific needs, taking into account various factors to determine the appropriate frequency. Here’s a general guideline for eye exam frequency based on age and risk level:

Recommended Frequency for Low-Risk Individuals:

• Infants and Toddlers (Birth to 24 months): An eye exam by age 6 months.
• Preschool Children (2 to 5 years): An eye exam at age 3 and before starting elementary school.
• School-Age Children (6 to 19 years): Annual eye exams.
• Adults (20 to 64 years): Every 1 to 2 years.
• Older Adults (65 years and older): Annual eye exams.

Factors Indicating High Risk and Potentially Increased Exam Frequency:

• Infants and Toddlers/Preschoolers:
  • Premature birth
  • Low birth weight
  • Maternal health issues during pregnancy
  • Family medical history of eye disorders
  • Strabismus (crossed eyes) or congenital eye disorders
• School-Age Children:
  • Difficulty in school
  • Reading and/or learning disabilities
• Adults:
  • Diabetes
  • Hypertension
  • Family history of glaucoma
  • Occupations with visually demanding tasks or exposure to eye hazards
• Older Adults:
  • Diabetes
  • Hypertension
  • Family history of glaucoma
  • Use of systemic medications with potential ocular side effects

Your optometrist will assess these factors and may recommend more frequent eye exams if you are at higher risk. Regular checkups are crucial for addressing potential issues before they become more serious and to adapt any treatments as needed

Why is dilation advantageous to the patient?

Why Pupil Dilation is Important:

• Enhanced Visualization: Dilation allows the optometrist to open up the pupil, providing a larger and clearer view of the retina, optic nerve, and other critical structures at the back of the eye.
• Diagnosis of Eye Diseases: Conditions such as glaucoma, diabetic retinopathy, macular degeneration, cataracts, and retinal detachment require detailed examination of the retina and optic nerve. Dilation helps in accurately assessing these conditions.
• Evaluation of Systemic Diseases: Eye exams can also reveal signs of systemic conditions, including vascular diseases and tumors, which may be visible in the retina.

How Dilation Works:

• Application: Pupil-dilating drops are applied to the eye, causing the pupil to expand. This process typically takes about 20 to 30 minutes.
• Examination: With the pupil enlarged, the optometrist can use specialized instruments, such as a slit lamp or ophthalmoscope, to thoroughly examine the back of the eye.
• Post-Examination: After dilation, vision may be temporarily blurred, and light sensitivity can increase. These effects usually wear off within a few hours.

Dilation is a crucial component of a comprehensive eye exam, ensuring that all parts of the eye are properly examined and any potential issues are detected early.

Does your office direct bill?

Yes, our office offers direct billing services! We understand that health care coverage is crucial for accessing the eye care services you need. Direct billing can make the process more convenient by allowing us to handle the insurance paperwork on your behalf. This means you can focus on your eye care without worrying about upfront payments or reimbursement processes.

If you have any questions about your coverage or how direct billing works, please let us know. We're here to help ensure you receive the care you need with minimal hassle.

Who is covered by Alberta Health Care?

In Alberta, Alberta Health provides coverage for eye care in several key areas:

1. Annual Eye Exams:
   • Children: Covered for those aged 0-18.
   • Adults: Covered for those aged 65 and older.
2. Medical Eye Problems:
   • Coverage extends to Albertans of all ages for visits related to medical eye issues such as:
     • Eye infections
     • Eye trauma
     • Eye diseases
     • Other medical concerns related to eye health

This expanded coverage ensures that individuals across all age groups have access to necessary eye care services, whether for routine exams or urgent medical issues. If you have any specific questions about your coverage or need assistance with direct billing, feel free to ask!

Do the doctors do rechecks?

Yes, our doctors do offer rechecks! However, please note that rechecks of prescriptions are available only for past patients who have had an eye examination with the same doctor within the past 3 months. This policy ensures that we can accurately address any concerns related to recent prescriptions and provide consistent, personalized care.

If you need a recheck or have any questions about your eligibility, feel free to contact our office. We’re here to assist you and ensure your eye care needs are met.