Frequently Asked Questions
Who should get an eye exam?
Everyone! The Canadian Association of Optometrists suggests infants should undergo their first eye exam between 6 and 9 months of age. Comprehensive eye exams are not only to determine if glasses are needed, but also to ensure quality of vision, eye health and to possibly detect other general health conditions.
How often should I see an optometrist?
The short answer is it depends. Various factors such as age, specific eye conditions or general health conditions influence the frequency at which you should have an eye exam. Generally speaking, every 1-2 years is recommended, but do not worry your optometrist will let you know at the end of your visit.
What should I expect during my exam?
When you first arrive our staff will greet and get you checked in. This includes making you a profile which includes your contact information, Nova Scotia health card number and any private insurance information. Once completed you will head into the pre-test room where you will be asked of your visual concerns, general health history, medications, and family health history. You will then be put through a few preliminary tests before you see the optometrist. In the exam room, your refractive error will be determined, binocular vision status assessed and ocular health looked at. The optometrist will then finish by educating you on all of the findings. Feel free to ask questions!
What is an optometrist?
The easiest way to think about it is that an optometrist is your family doctor for your eyes. Optometrists are trained to diagnose, treat, manage and prevent disease of your visual system and physical eye structure.
Do you sell glasses?
At Sackville Optometry we are strictly focused on the health of your eyes. As a result, we are happy to provide you with your prescription for which you can take to any optical. However, we are conveniently located inside Ishine Optical Outlet.
Is my exam covered by MSI?
With a valid Nova Scotia health card number, MSI covers;
- Comprehensive eye exams at certain time intervals for those with specific health conditions.
- Emergency eye exams
- Comprehensive eye exams every 2 years for children 9 and under
- Comprehensive eye exams every 2 years for adults over 65