More properly called a visual
examination, the object of the exercise is
to determine the patient's general and ocular health.
It will also assess if visual correction is necessary
and determine the strength and most suitable type of correction.
Step by step guide to the sight test:
A modern visual examination or 'sight test' has several
important components.
Step One First it is important to find out about you
the patient. Are there any immediate concerns.
Step Two
We then identify if there are any problems. Are
there any difficulties with vision? Are headaches or eyestrain
being experienced? Are there any general health problems
that may be affecting visual performance?
Time is given to chat through the reason for the visit.
It is very useful if you can bring along your latest
spectacles (even if broken) and a list of medication.
Step Three
In the third part of the examination we look at the
eye from the lids and the external eye to the
retina itself to make sure that everything is healthy.
Step Four
We then work out if a prescription is needed and
how best to prescribe it.
One in three people don't need a correction, or their
present one is still adequate.
Step Five
If there are choices to make in when, and what
type of correction should be worn, then time is given
to explain the relative merits of each option.
Spectacles for distance and reading may be prescribed,
depending on the need. Bifocals, or more commonly varifocals,
may be needed. Contact
lenses are becoming increasingly popular too.
