Eye Checkup Cost

When my mother was nearing her mid-forties, she started having a slight vision problem as so many others in and around that age group encounter. So there was nothing alarming in it. We got an eye checkup done and consequently my mother got her prized possession - her first pair of glasses. We had almost no idea as to how much would an eye examination cost. I thought why not explore the topic on the internet and see the charges for an eye examination. It was more out of curiosity rather than worrying about each penny for us. But it did help when we actually went for the checkup. As by then we had a rough idea about the cost. From that experience, I thought why not share with you whatever I found!

How Much Does an Eye Exam Cost?
A host of factors affect the average cost of an eye exam. An eye check should be as thorough as possible and money should not be a concern for the sake of your vision. All over USA, typically the cost of an eye checkup is around $ 115. Now this cost can increase or decrease, as per the region and the clinic. This cost does not include insurance. $110 or so is what you will need to pay if you go to a decent clinic, an average family eye care center, the cost may come down. What is a thorough eye exam might come up in your mind. Now the test involves taking down of your medical history and current eye complains. You will be asked to read letters and then there will be a color vision test and an eye muscle test. You peripheral vision and eye pressure too will be checked. Eye pressure is basically checked to rule out signs of glaucoma. Pupil dilation test is another common test. Further, if you go to an optometrist attached with a store, like let us say Walmart, the average cost will be roughly around $60.

Additions to the Cost
The cost of an eye exam will include the charges for corrective lenses or eye glasses in case any vision deficiency is identified. The eye glass prescription too may be charged. Eye glasses are cheaper than lenses starting from around $8 to $10 and costing as high as $600, for those who do not have insurance. Thus, the average, comes up to $196 or $200. Disposable lenses range from around $80 to $100 for around 3 months. A yearly expense for extended wear lenses can cost anywhere around $180 to $320. Eye drops will also add to the expense.

Factors Affecting the Cost
You can go to an ophthalmologist which is a bit expensive but recommended by experts or you can go to an optometrist, which is a cheaper option. Whichever you choose, necessary eye care and health should not be compensated. Another factor is the region you stay in. California could be a bit expensive than let us say Georgia or perhaps Minnesota. Is it a high tech medical center with state-of-the-art facilities or a simpler clinic? Well, if it is the former, expect to shell out slightly more than the latter. The extent of the eye problems will also decide the cost of the exam.

When it comes to your eyes, experts say that money should not be a concern. Those who are skeptical because they do not have insurance, there are facilities where you can pay less or pay in installments, etc. I sign off here! Take care!