Frequently Asked Questions

Eye exams aren’t one-size-fits-all, but at least once every two years is a good schedule for patients younger than 60 who don’t need new glasses or contact lens prescriptions. For older patients and patients with risk factors, an annual exam is recommended. Keep in mind that the eye doctor is often the first one to spot early signs of chronic diseases like hypertension, high cholesterol, and diabetes. One more reason to stay on top of those appointments!

 

Checking for vision changes is one part of a Comprehensive Eye Exam. 

We do not offer vision checkups without a Comprehensive Eye Exam, which includes looking inside the eye and checking for other systemic issues beyond just changes to your vision. 

Most patients who ask this question are concerned about cost, or whether insurance will be billed to Medical or Vision Insurance. Most Vision Insurance covers the cost of a Comprehensive Eye Exam, including refraction.  Whether your medical or Vision insurance is billed depends on your unique medical history, not whether

We do not offer refraction-only vision checks. Checking for changes in your vision is one component of a comprehensive eye exam, which also includes an evaluation of your eye health and screening for systemic conditions that can affect the eyes.

Many patients who ask this question are concerned about cost or how their insurance will be billed. Most vision plans cover the cost of a comprehensive eye exam, including refraction. It is also worth noting that whether your visit is billed to medical or vision insurance is determined by your medical history — not by whether your exam is “refraction-only”.

If you have questions about cost or coverage, please contact our office and we will be happy to provide an estimate before your appointment.

We accept the following: 

Vision Insurance: Eyemed, VSP, Spectera, DavisVision, SuperiorVision

Medical Insurance: BlueCross/Blue Shield, United Healthcare as well as Medicare and Medicaid. 

There are two types of insurance that may cover your eye care, and our practice may bill either or both depending on the nature of your visit:

  • Vision Care Plans (VSP, EyeMed, Superior, VCP, etc.)
  • Medical Insurance (BlueCross BlueShield, Medicare, etc.)

Vision Care Plans cover routine comprehensive eye exams, eyeglasses, and contact lenses. They do not cover the diagnosis, management, or treatment of eye disease, and are not applicable when a medical condition is involved.

Medical Insurance is billed when your exam is no longer considered routine — for example, if you have a systemic condition such as diabetes, hypertension, or autoimmune disease that can affect the eyes, or if an eye disease is being diagnosed or managed. Your doctor will make this determination based on your exam findings and medical history.

If you have both types of insurance, it may be necessary to bill certain services to each plan separately, depending on your medical history and the care provided during your visit.

No. Our optometry practice is independently owned and has a separate dedicated entrance. You do not need a Sam’s Club membership to be seen at our West Little Rock location. 

Yes. Following your exam, you will receive a copy of your eyeglass or contact lens prescription, and you are free to fill it wherever you choose.

If you choose to purchase glasses online, we recommend using a reputable retailer. Errors in prescription entry, poor lens craftsmanship, or improper fitting can negatively affect both your vision and your comfort.

An Optometrist (OD) has a degree in optometry and is licensed to practice optometry. An optometrist has had approximately eight years of training and is qualified to perform routine eye care, prescribe and fit glasses and contact lenses, and diagnose and treat most eye conditions and diseases. An optometrist will typically refer to an ophthalmologist if a patient has a severe eye problem that needs surgery or extensive treatment.
 
An Ophthalmologist (MD) has a medical degree and is licensed to practice medicine. An ophthalmologist has had approximately twelve years of training and is qualified to diagnose and treat all eye diseases, perform surgery, and prescribe and fit glasses and contact lenses. An ophthalmologist often specializes in a specific part of the eye, and treats severe problems with the eyes