Eye Exam Cost

The ability to see the world through our eyes is one of the biggest blessing God has given us. However, most of us take our eyesight for granted and continue to ignore common eye problems. It is not until the problem manifests into a major eye defect, that we wake up to the need for an eye exam. A regular eye checkup by a qualified optometrist or an ophthalmologist can detect any eye problems at an early stage. This will eliminate any chances of a major problem or worse a permanent vision defect. Most people sure know the importance of eye testing but shy away from it owing to the high cost. However, cost of an eye exam should not be a constraint if you indeed wish to take proper eye care.

Factors Influencing Cost of an Eye Exam

Just like any other medical exam cost, cost of an eye exam is also dependent upon several factors. The place where you get yourself examined mainly determines the cost of your exam. Incidentally, there are many places where you can get an eye exam done. A private office of an ophthalmologist or an eye department of a multi facility hospital are some of the most reliable places to get your eyes checked. Besides, optical stores also offer eye checkup through their affiliated optometrist. Famous supermarket chains like Walmart, Costco, Target also have their own optometrist who can do an eye checkup for you for a very small fee. Privately practicing ophthalmologist and eye hospitals are by far the most expensive options for eye exams. However, they are equipped with qualified staff and advance infrastructure that facilitates diagnosis of certain rare eye disorders. Optical stores and supermarkets offer the cheapest options for eye exam.

Average Eye Exam Cost

It is very difficult to estimate the correct cost, as it is dependent on certain variables. A typical eye exam at a private office of an ophthalmologist may cost you somewhere around USD 150. Same is the case with an eye department of an eye hospital. Supermarkets or optical chain stores may charge you about USD 50 - USD 60. Routine eye exam includes checking for the possibilities of nearsightedness, farsightedness, astigmatism, presbyopia etc. If the test also includes contact lens fitting or updation of prescription eyeglasses, then expect to pay more. A comprehensive eye exam includes revaluation of your medical history as well as review of personal and family health. A test to check the performance of each eye as well as both of them as a team is also performed. Eye disorders such as glaucoma, cataracts, macular degeneration are also checked for, by doing extensive pressure testing and examination of optic nerve. Such comprehensive eye exam is likely to cost you several hundred dollars.

Factors to be Considered for Eye Examination

Low cost should not be your only determinant for getting an eye exam. You also look at various intangible factors such as expertise of the optometrist or ophthalmologist, skill of the staff, cleanliness of the clinic along with other factors. You may ask your friends for a referral. It is always best to shop around before you settle for a clinic. These factors play a vital role if you are planning to go for a comprehensive eye exam.

It is important that you routinely get your eyes examined no matter if you experience any symptoms or not. The frequency of the eye exam should be more if you suffer from any eye defects or have certain risks associated with it. People who have visually demanding occupations should also make it a point to test their eyes frequently. Children of school age should be tested for eye problems at least once a year.

If high cost is a problem for you, then you may look for eye exam coupons available online which enable you to get free eye tests for a span of 3 to 5 years. You can also avail huge discounts on eyeglasses and contact lenses. You may also seek insurance coverage under Medicare or other such plan.