EYE EXAMINATION AT SHEPHARD & AKAY OPTOMETRISTS
We firmly believe that looking after your eyes is as important as looking after the rest of your body. Having a regular eye exam should therefore be as an important part of your health routine as going to the dentist for example. As an independent practice we are passionate about providing a high level of service, whether it is a private or NHS appointment.
Early detection of eye problems leads to more effective management to allow you to continue to enjoy good vision. By having your eyes expertly examined, we can spot the earliest signs of eye disease. To offer you the best in eye care, we have invested in the industry leading Nidek Retina Duoscan combined retinal camera and OCT scanning equipment, allowing early detection of eye conditions such as glaucoma, macular degeneration, diabetic eye disease, and vascular problems and, helping to prevent you from having sight-threatening complications. Our highly qualified optometrists do not just test your vision, but also carry out a comprehensive ophthalmic examination.
HOW LONG DO EYE EXAMS TAKE?
Our appointments take 30-40 minutes depending on your individual requirements. Before seeing one of our expert optometrists, you will have preliminary tests carried out by our trained optical assistants to check your eye pressures and peripheral vision. During your eye exam, our optometrists will carry out various tests to see if you require vision correction with spectacles or contact lenses.
Taking into account our clinical findings, your general health, your history and your family’s history, we tailor the eye examination to offer you the most thorough investigations possible.
If you are prescribed glasses, you will need to have ample time to choose from our extensive range of frames and discuss your individual requirements with our dispensers. We take the time to answer any questions or concerns you may have and explain all our findings so as you may have a better understanding of your eye health. You will never be rushed. We therefore advise you to allow 60-90 minutes for your visit.
CHILDREN’S EYE TESTS
Fortunately, most young children have excellent sight and do not need to wear glasses. However, if your child has vision problems it is important that this is identified early on. If you or your GP have any concerns about your child’s eyes, or if there is family history of a squint or lazy eye, it is advisable to have your children’s eyes tested at a very early age. Children do not have to be able to read or talk to have a sight test. We are proud to be considered a child friendly practice and recommended on the Hertfordshire Health Authority’s list of highly regarded optometrists. All our optometrists are experienced in examining young children and ensure that the experience is a positive one.
Children under 16 years old, and those aged 16 to 18 in full-time education are entitled to have free eye test under NHS. If a child needs glasses, you will be issued with a voucher which may cover the full cost of glasses, or you can put it towards the cost if you choose more expensive frames.