You can do just about anything online nowadays. Whether you’re buying new clothes or earning a degree, if you have an internet connection, you can accomplish it online!
But what about your regular eye exams? Is an online test sufficient enough for that?
Put simply, the answer is no!
Online Eye Exams Aren’t All What They Seem
Several online services offer the opportunity to take an eye test from the comfort of your own home. Using a series of lines, shapes and letters, they claim to provide an assessment of your vision in as little as 30 minutes. Many of these services even offer to have your test results verified by an optometrist who can then issue an eyeglass prescription.
Although online vision tests may seem convenient, they only measure visual acuity and refractive error. Some branch out and test for other vision problems such as color blindness and light sensitivity, but none have the ability to focus on what’s most important—your eye health. A comprehensive eye exam from your optometrist is the only way to identify signs for serious vision problems such as cataracts, glaucoma, and macular degeneration.
Self-Examination Poses Certain Risks
Conducting a vision test without the aid of a qualified optometrist poses certain risks.
Undiagnosed Vision Problems
If vision problems such as cataracts, macular degeneration, and glaucoma exist, they will remain undiagnosed. Other overall health conditions can even present symptoms in the eyes. In fact, blurred vision is often one of the first warning signs of diabetes. If you are experiencing drastic changes in your vision, make an appointment with your optometrist.
For more information about what we learn during a comprehensive eye exam, watch the video below!
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Incorrect Prescription
Even though some services have their vision test results verified by an optometrist, without an eye care professional present while you take the online test, it’s difficult to ensure that the test is administered properly in the first place. Inaccurate test results may lead to receiving an incorrect prescription.
Cost
Online tests aren’t usually covered by vision insurance. If you do have insurance, your co-pay is likely less expensive than the fees associated with online vision services.
We Care About Your Vision AND Overall Health
We value our patients’ time and understand why the convenience of online vision tests may be alluring—but we also value your health! We want to ensure that you’re not only seeing clearly, but that you’re on the path to whole-body health as well. If you have any questions about the benefits of an in-office exam in our practice, let us know!
