Is an Eye Exam the Same as a Vision Screening? No!

What comes to mind when you think of an eye exam? Reading a series of letters off a chart?

The Snellen chart is a simple way to measure visual acuity, or how clearly you see, and is often used in vision screening to help identify people who may have vision problems and need corrective lenses. A vision screening can provide critical information, but it is not the same as an eye exam and is not intended to take the place of one.

[pullquote align=”right”]A vision screening is not the same as an eye exam.[/pullquote]

School nurses and DMV employees can conduct a vision screening. There are even smartphone apps available so you can do one at home. A comprehensive eye exam, on the other hand, is performed by a doctor and includes thorough testing and evaluation of all aspects of your vision and eye health. Such an exam involves much more than just determining your prescription for eyeglasses or contact lenses. I check for eye disease (which is why people with “perfect vision” should still get eye exams) and evaluate your eyes as an indicator of overall health. In fact, I am often the first healthcare professional to detect chronic systemic diseases such as high blood pressure and diabetes.

It is generally recommended that people schedule an eye exam every one to three years, depending on age, health, family history and other factors as determined by their doctor. Patients with diabetes should schedule an exam once at least once a year to monitor any changes. (Learn more.)

What to expect in a comprehensive eye exam

Generally, patients can expect the following in a complete exam:

• Visual acuity testing (how well you see at various distances)
• Visual field test to measure peripheral vision (loss of side vision is a sign of glaucoma)
• Prescription evaluation
• Thorough evaluation of the visual system (anatomy and function)
• Medical evaluation (disease detection and diagnosis)
• Measurement of intraocular pressure

Your exam may involve pupil dilation and the use of imaging equipment and/or other diagnostic technology.

Also as part of the exam, I go over family and personal medical history and lifestyle factors that may put you at greater risk for eye disease and other health problems, with the goal of minimizing risk and preserving your vision for lifelong satisfaction at work and at play.

Dr. Jeff Pinkerton
iCare for you.