All children within the first few months of life: This is primarily for the evaluation of neurological and muscular function as well as a gross vision evaluation of the eye.
Children by age 3 years old: Comprehensive eye exam.
Children upon entering school (approximately 5 years of age): Comprehensive eye exam.
Ages 5 and up: Annually
During a routine exam, Dr. Stacy Beute checks not only your prescription, but also the overall health of the eye. She checks for glaucoma, macular degeneration, cataracts, dry eye syndrome and signs of high blood pressure, diabetes and other systemic conditions.
An optometrist is an eye doctor who has earned the Doctor of Optometry (OD) degree. Optometrists examine eyes for both vision and health problems, and correct refractive errors by prescribing eyeglasses and contact lenses. Some optometrists also provide low vision care and vision therapy. Optometrists also are licensed to prescribe medications to treat certain eye problems and diseases. Most individuals go to Optometrists for their annual exams.
An ophthalmologist is a medical doctor (MD) or an osteopathic doctor (DO) who specializes in eye and vision care. Ophthalmologists are trained to perform eye exams, diagnose and treat disease, prescribe medications and perform eye surgery.
It’s no surprise that vision insurance is confusing to most people. Because vision insurance is supplemental to regular health insurance, it’s difficult to understand which benefits are included and which ones must be purchased.
Is there a difference between medical and vision insurance? The answer is yes…and no!
Here is an example of how both may work in real life. You may work for an employer that provides both types of insurance, medical insurance and vision insurance. You may have medical insurance, for example, Blue Cross Blue Shield, and also a separate vision plan, such as Vision Service Plan (VSP). You decide that it is time for your annual routine eye exam because your glasses are falling apart. You call and make an appointment with an Optometrist who asks you what vision insurance plan you have. If you respond by stating that you have insurance such as Blue Cross Blue Shield, that Optometrist’s office most likely will respond by stating that they do not accept that insurance, but do you have a vision plan? Most Optometrists will accept the supplemental vision plan you purchase with your insurance policy through your employer.
If you have no supplemental vision plan and still would like to use your medical insurance, you will most likely need to make your appointment with an ophthalmologist. Although most eye care practices are very knowledgeable about insurance plans, remember that it is not your doctor’s responsibility to know the details of your individual plan. It is to your benefit to be fully informed of your individual plan details which you can obtain from your insurance company or employer.
We accept 2 supplemental plans- Vision Service Plan (VSP) and Eyemed. We do not work directly with medical plans such as BCBS, Humana, Aetna, etc…
Mostly Yes.