All children need a healthy vision for their safety and optimum school performance. Vision problems in small kids can indeed be challenging. Healthy eyes and vision are essential for all children, irrespective of their age. Therefore, one cannot undermine the importance of regular eye exams for children to ensure that their eyes are healthy, and there are no vision problems. Recent studies show that one in four children suffer from a vision problem, and almost half of the children do not visit an eye doctor. As vision problems are getting common among school going kids, the need for kids’ optometrist services arises. But who is an optometrist, and how can he help?
Kids’ Optometrist Services-
When the child is a baby or a couple of years old, the family doctor or pediatrician makes sure that the child's vision is okay. However, if any kind of vision problem is suspected, it is essential to take the child to an eye specialist. Optometrists are the doctors who specialize in optical disorders. They get trained and are licensed to diagnose and treat eye conditions and vision problems. In some cases, the optometrists may even carry out some form of laser or other eye surgery.
Based on the examination and the results of the kids' optometrist services, the Doctor of Optometry may prescribe eyeglasses, vision therapy, low vision aids, and contact lenses. They also provide pre- and post-operative care. For more serious eye problems, the optometrist may refer the case to an ophthalmologist.
An optometrist or an Ophthalmologist Whom Do You Need?
As mentioned before, your optometrist may refer you to an ophthalmologist in case of serious eye diseases. An ophthalmologist is a doctor of osteopathy who specializes in the surgical treatment of eye conditions and injuries. They carry out major eye surgeries, lens implants take care of retinal detachments, and remove cataracts. As Ophthalmologists are MDs, expect to pay higher fees for their services.
However, for routine eye care and check-ups, you should opt for kids’ optometrist services.
Good Optometrist for your Kid-
Before you start looking for kids’ optometrist services, you should be sure about the kind of eye care you need and what does your vision health plan cover. Here are a few steps to follow and zero in on a good optometrist service provider.
Check out the lists of eye doctors listed by your insurance company and see which one is covered in your health plan.
Once you have a couple of names, get referrals from your friends and family, and ask for their recommendations.
It is always a good idea to take the advice of a family doctor or pharmacist to refer you to some good kids’ optometrist services.
Once you have the names, call the ophthalmology department and learn more about their services, timings and charges.
It is always better to check the Consumer's Guide to Top Doctors to know if there are any malpractice cases against a optometrist.
The kids’ optometrist services you finally select should be licensed, certified as well as reputed in your state. Find out where the doctor got his degree from and if he is board certified and how long has been in practice. After all, you cannot make any mistakes when it comes to the vision of your child and go only to the top optometrist in your area.
You can tell if you have chosen the right eye doctor when you are 100% satisfied with the kid’s optometrist services. All your concerns get addressed properly every time, and most importantly, your child is happy with the doctor and enjoys improved eye health. It is crucial to hire the right optometrist to keep those eyes healthy and problem -free.
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