Comprehensive Eye Exam

If you’ve had a vision screening recently, you might say, “My vision is fine! I don’t need a comprehensive eye exam.”

But a vision screening provides a limited perspective on the overall health of your eyes. It’s a bit like getting your blood pressure checked and not getting the rest of your annual physical. You’ll have useful information, but it’s not the whole picture.
 

What are the Limitations of a Vision Screening?

Vision screenings only test your ability to see clearly in the distance. This is called visual acuity and is just one factor in your overall vision. Others include color vision, peripheral vision, and depth perception. The screening also doesn’t evaluate how well the eyes focus up close or work together. Most importantly, it doesn’t give any information about the health of the eyes.
 

Vision screenings are conducted by individuals untrained in eye health.

Vision screenings are offered in many places – schools, health fairs, as part of a work physical or for a driver’s license. Most individuals don’t have the tools or knowledge to give you a complete assessment of your vision or eye health.

Vision screenings use inadequate testing equipment.
In some cases, a vision screening is limited to an eye chart across the room. Even when conducted in a physician's office, they won’t have the extensive testing equipment of an eye doctor. They also won’t be aware of nuances such as room lighting and testing distances all of which are factors that can affect test results.
 

What are the Benefits of a Comprehensive Eye Exam?

Comprehensive eye exams evaluate all aspects of your vision and eye health.
Our comprehensive eye examination involves more than just how clearly you see. The doctor will evaluate how efficiently you use your eyes together and how effectively you focus on near objects. He will also conduct a thorough ocular health evaluation. This includes a screening for glaucoma, cataracts and other eye diseases. Dilation of the pupils may be necessary to get a better internal view of the eye.
 

How Often Do I Need An Eye Exam?

Age 1 | 1st Exam  

Age 3 | 2nd Exam

  Ages 5-18 | Annually           

   Ages 19-40 | Annually              

 Over 40 | Annually       

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These are general rules for normal healthy eyes. 

Patients with eye disease, contact lenses or special problems may require more frequent care. If you're not sure what you need, just reach out or schedule an appointment, we'll be happy to talk it over with you!