Optomaps retinal imaging is a quick and easy way for doctors to evaluate the retina WITHOUT dilation. This is the part of the eye that can suffer from macular degeneration, glaucoma, diabetic retinopathy, melanoma, retinal holes/detachments, genetic disorders, and several other conditions.
Vision loss can result from these conditions, many of which are treatable and vision loss may be prevented with early detection. We are able to evaluate retinal health to a greater extent and have an image to compare to in the future.
We have found problems ranging from minor to severe in hundreds of patients, and many times without any warning or symptoms. The doctor will review your images with you in the exam room the same day. If any problems are detected, the doctor will let you know if it requires a referral, treatment, further testing, or monitoring.
Optomap Retinal Imaging Policy
Our practice takes Optomap images during every comprehensive vision exam. Although this test will add an out-of-pocket cost to each patient, we feel strongly about the benefits of this type of imaging each year. The patient cost is only $29, which is lower than most every other office that offers this service.
FAQ
Why don’t insurance companies pay for this test? This is still considered an advanced technology that most offices in the country don’t yet have.
What if I cannot afford the cost? If you cannot afford this, please let a staff member know if this is your situation. We believe this is necessary for a thorough and complete eye exam to check the health and detecting any problems that may exist. We are keeping the cost low because we are sensitive to the extra fee, but as a very expensive piece of equipment, a fee is necessary.
Can I opt-out of this service? No, we are making this our standard of care for all patients during every vision exam.
How old do you have to be to do Optomap? Optomap retinal imaging is for all ages. Children as young as 3 years old are usually able to do the test well. We have found serious problems in healthy young children with no complaints. If your child is physically unable to take photos there will be no charge.
Will I need to have my eyes dilated? No, in most cases. Optomap images allow us to see your internal ocular health without dilation during your annual vision exam. Please note that we see many patients for medical eye exams for diabetes, cataracts, macular degeneration, and other conditions. Many of these exams may still require dilation, which is typically done at a medical eye exam separate from an annual vision exam.
Does this policy apply to medical eye exams? No, this policy applies to annual vision exams only. Medical eye exams are more problem-focused and may include dilation and/or retinal photos. Oftentimes this can be billed to medical insurance when an underlying condition is present.
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