In Need of a New Eye Doctor? Thoughts to Consider When Choosing an Eye Doctor

When it comes to our health, we often take our vision for granted—that is, until something goes wrong. Whether you're due for a routine eye exam or you're experiencing vision problems, choosing an eye doctor is an important decision. Here are a few factors to keep in mind when selecting an eye care professional.

1. Consider your insurance coverage.

If you have vision insurance, your choices for an eye doctor may be limited to those within your network. Call your insurance provider and ask for a list of in-network providers in your area. If you don't have vision insurance, you'll want to consider the cost of services before making your choice.

2. Determine what type of care you need.

Do you need a comprehensive exam? Or are you just looking for someone to prescribe glasses or contacts? Depending on your needs, you may want to choose a medical doctor (an ophthalmologist), a doctor of optometry, or both.

3. Ask for recommendations.

Start by asking your family and friends if they have any recommendations. You can also ask your primary care physician or another health care professional for a referral. Once you have a few names, do some research on each one. Check their websites and read online reviews from other patients.

4. Consider accessibility and location.

You'll want to choose an eye doctor who is conveniently located and who has office hours that fit your schedule. You should also find out whether the practice has evening or weekend hours and whether appointments are available on short notice if needed.

5. Look for someone who makes you feel comfortable.

Your relationship with your eye doctor should be based on trust and open communication. When you visit the office, pay attention to how the staff treats patients and how the doctor interacts with them during appointments. Does the doctor answer all of your questions thoroughly? Do they make an effort to get to know you? These are important factors to consider when making your decision.

Choosing an eye doctor is an important decision—one that shouldn't be taken lightly. By keeping these factors in mind, you can be sure that you're making the best choice for your individual needs and preferences.