Performing a Google search on “Cape Coral eye doctors” will leave you feeling more overwhelmed than ever. There are so many opticians and optometrists in Cape Coral, Florida that choosing one among the hundreds is a huge challenge.
If you’re in the market for an eye doctor in Cape Coral, there are certain tricks you can use to find one that suits your needs. Here’s what you need to do to find an eye doctor that’s right for you.
Always check with your insurance provider first
Not everyone’s insurance plans with have eye coverage but if yours does this is the first thing to consider. You can check with your insurance directly to see which doctors in your area are covered under your specific plan. You can also check with the eye clinics to see which plans they accept and if yours is one of them. Always get this info first before you end up having to pay out of pocket for an eye exam or checkup.
Know the difference between optometrist, optician, and ophthalmologist
The medical terminology for eye care can actually be pretty confusing. What the heck is the difference between an optometrist and optician? What about an ophthalmologist? Before you make an appointment do a bit of research to see what type of eye professional you’re actually seeing.
An optician is not actually an eye doctor but just has training in fitting and selling eyeglasses and other eyewear. An optometrist has earned a degree as a Doctor or Optometry and they can perform exams for vision and health problems. They can also prescribe certain medications for eye diseases.
The most advanced type of eye doctor is an ophthalmologist. They are medical doctors who specialize in eye and vision care. They are required to complete 4 years of undergrad as well as 4 years of med school, 1 year of an internship and 3 years of residency. If you ever need an eye surgery it will be performed by an ophthalmologist.
Get sound advice from professional organizations
There are plenty of resources for finding reputable and highly-rated doctors in your area. You can visit the American Academy of Ophthalmology or the American Optometric Association for valuable info on the best doctors and their previous experience.
Ask about people’s experiences with eye doctors near you
Social media is another amazing tool in 2019 for finding just about anything. Whether you post about needing a new washing machine or you’re seeking an eye doctor to take care of you and your family, Facebook is a great resource for getting the proper information. You can also ask your friends, family members, and neighbors in person about the eye doctors they use.
Ask your primary doctor or pediatrician
Your regular doctor can definitely help you out with this. Next time you go in for an appointment ask for his or her recommendations on which optometrist or ophthalmologist to use. Ask about your specific needs, like whether you need routine exams for the kids or you’re experiencing some eye-related issues.
