FAQ - the eye examination

Are all eye examinations the same?

Sadly not. We make a distinction between an eye test and an eye examination. To test patient's eyes for the need for glasses (refraction) is as far as many opticians go (with just a very cursory look at the eye's health) and the test is finished in half the time it takes Claire to examine your eyes. Refraction can be automated and the need for experienced healthcare professionals is diminishing, often certain tests are performed by unqualified staff. To examine the eyes for normal morphology and examine the optic nerve and macular in great detail takes many years of advanced study and a great deal of experience. To carry out these procedures in a caring and friendly way, especially in children, is a unique aspect of the care at Hammond and Dummer.


Why do I need an eye examination?

It is important for every one to see properly. If you use a computer, watch television or go to the cinema, it is much more comfortable when you can see clearly. If you drive, there is a legal limit to your vision. If your vision is below this limit then you are more likely to have accidents and, if caught, you would be deemed to be driving dangerously. Surveys have been carried out which suggest about half of all drivers have never had an eye examination, and of these about 20% are below the legal standard. I'm sure you would not like to be involved in an accident where the other driver could not see!


How often do I need to have my eyes examined?

For the majority of people once every 2 years is sufficient. Annual appointments are recommended for diabetics and people with a family history of glaucoma. Children should be seen once every year, but more often if their prescription is changing.


Should I bring my children for an eye examination?

The NHS and the RNIB stipulate that all children should have their eyes examined from the age of three years old. If there is a problem then the earlier it is diagnosed the better the chance that correction will be more effective. Some opticians do not examine young children because they do not have the expertise or it is uneconomic. Claire uses special software developed by Professor Thompson at the City of London University to examine these young children. Children do not need to know their letters as we have pictures and other methods of checking their eyes.


Why do some opticians give away eye tests?

Claire is a highly qualified professional with twenty years experience. We would suggest that if you asked a lawyer, accountant or consultant at the hospital to help you in some way then there would be a charge; sometimes many hundreds of pounds. We cannot afford to give away such professional services but there are opticians that do offer 'free' eye tests. They know the value of their own worth. These are often little more than automated refraction and the cost is added to the products for sale. Claire charges a fair a reasonable fee of under £40 for a 30 minute examination.