Skip to main content

Do you need to bring anything to the eye doctor? Many first-time patients tend to ask this question when they’re preparing for their check-up, and the answer is always yes. 

Whether it’s the day before or night before your eye exam, you need to know what to bring to your optometrist appointment. Bring these things along with you to have your appointment run as quickly, efficiently, and smoothly as possible. Your optometrist and future self will thank you for it! 

Identification (Driver’s License)  

The clinic will need some form of identification to verify you are who you say you are. This is a common practice and helps with their records as well as verifying insurance coverage. A driver’s license or other government-issued photo ID should suffice. 

Proof of Vision Insurance 

If you plan to use insurance to help cover the bill, bring your vision insurance card with you. It’s also helpful to have a sense of what is covered by your insurance plan.  

Bring your current glasses or contact lenses along with you. Your optometrist might ask to see them, as this helps them figure out your prescription if you are unable to bring your past ones.  

Glasses & Contact Lenses and Case 

While most places provide contact lens cases for any lens samples they offer, bring a spare to put your old ones into if you might receive replacements during the visit. 

Questions 

Our minds tend to blank on any questions we had for our doctor once we’re in the room. Jot down all the questions you have on a note or on your phone to ask the doctor when the time comes.  

Symptoms and Issues List 

In as much detail as possible, make a list of your symptoms and issues that brought you here. Also mention any services, procedures, or lens alternatives that you might be interested in in the future to make your doctor aware of. 

Medical History  

Make sure you’re knowledgeable about the following things your optometrist might ask you about: 

  • Updated list of medications  

A Planning App/ Planner  

It’s good practice to schedule your next appointment while you’re still there. Eye exams are an annual affair, so most places will ask you to book your next visit during the current one. Bring something like a planner or a reminder app to put the next appointment in so you don’t forget! 

Your Current or Past Prescription 

If you’ll be visiting a new doctor or are changing clinics, it’s a good idea to bring past prescriptions. Providing this info to your doctor can help them speed up the process and familiarize them with your conditions and eyesight much faster. 

Payment 

Depending on your coverage, insurance might not cover the whole visit and you’ll need to pay the rest out of pocket. Call your insurance provider ahead of time to answer any of your insurance questions! Always bring your desired form of payment, as well as a backup in case they don’t accept the other option. If you’re unsure what method of payment the doctor takes, call ahead and ask! 

Sunglasses or a Driver 

After your appointment, you might not be able to see as well as you did when you walked in. Even in routine check-ups, your optometrist may use eye drops to dilate your pupils for examination. While the drops usually wear off by the end of your appointment, exposure to bright sunlight before the effect is over can make it difficult to see the road. This sensitivity can be fixed by bringing sunglasses to improve your vision. 

Other times, it may not be advisable for you to drive. Err on the side of caution and bring a friend or family member to drive you just in case. 

Are you in need of an eye exam? The experts at Eyes of Lubbock are here to answer all your questions and provide you with the best service possible. Contact us now to schedule an appointment!