Frequently Asked Questions

Please find the answers for your frequently asked questions below. Just click the question to reveal the answer. Use the questions topic filter to narrow the list. If you’d like to ask us a question, please browse through the pre-answered, frequently asked questions below. If you haven’t found the answer, please contact us.

Eye refraction is the eye test that measures your ability to see an object at a specific distance.   It is performed using a series of test lenses in graded powers to determine which provide the sharpest, clearest vision. [Better 1 – or Better 2]  This information is used to determine the correct prescription needed for your eyeglasses or contact lenses. An eye refraction test can be done as part of a routine exam to determine if you have normal vision.  When you complain of blurred vision, this test can help determine the extent of poor vision.  A refraction test can also be performed to help follow the progress of treatment or diseases of the eye.

The interval of time between eye exams greatly depends on the health of the eye. For children and even adults in their 20s and 30s, it is usually sufficient to get a comprehensive eye exam every few years. Once patients reach the age of 50, we suggest an annual comprehensive eye exam.

There are instances where patients may need to have multiple eye exams per year to monitor one or two specific issues. For example, for patients who have macular degeneration, it may be necessary to dilate the eyes every 4-6 months to examine the health of the retina. Routine pressure checks are important for those who suffer from glaucoma, but it is probably not essential to do a complete eye exam. We see these patients on a more individualized schedule based on the severity of their disease.

A cataract is a clouding of the lens of the eye due to changes in proteins that make up the lens. As we age, the lens thickens and hardens. Certain factors can cause cataracts to develop more quickly such as ultraviolet radiation (UV rays) smoking, diabetes, steroids and nutrition deficiency. Even the most healthy and active individuals will likely develop cataracts at some point in their lives.

Due to the nature and many options for Insurance Coverage, there is no simple answer to this question. We can break the answer down into two different types of insurance. Vision Plans and Medical Benefits.

Our practice participates with VSP and EyeMed vision plans. Both VSP and EyeMed will cover a Comprehensive Eye Exam less their copay. Both of these vison plans cover the Refraction as well. This means with a separate vision plan, Comprehensive Eye Exams are covered with very little to zero out of pocket costs to our patients depending on plan details. All other vision plans that are considered Out of Network for our practice will typically reimburse patients directly with completion of a form and submission of an itemized paid receipt. Reimbursement amounts are between the patient and their Vision Plan, Bedminster Eye and Laser Center cannot guarantee reimbursement of out-of-pocket costs.

Traditional insurance plans, including Medicare Part B, will cover one Comprehensive Eye Exam a year. Medical diagnoses permit coverage by these plans. Refractions, the test for an updated prescription for eyeglasses or contact lenses, is typically not covered by medical plans. See our additional FAQ, “What is a Refraction?” It is recommended to verify your coverage with your Insurance Provider before scheduling an appointment.

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