Eye Exam — Doctor Vs Any Eye Vision Place?
April 5th, 2011 | See the Top Answers to this Question Below
I have never had an eye exam but am noticing I am becoming a little far sighted. I can only read small print 12 inches away from my eye. Anyway, is there a difference with going to a place like Pearl Vision or Cambride Eye verses making an appointment with a optimologist with his own practice?
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The doctors all have the same training and knowledge, but because of the circumstances have a little different perspective.
1. The private doctor is likely to give more individual attention because he is working for himself and has a vested interest in your repeat business, whereas the chain store doctor is more of an employee working for the chain store’s benefit and is just doing a job..
2. The private doctor is only concerned about pleasing you, whereas the chain store doctor is torn between what’s best for you and the chain store.
3. When you return in the future to the chain store you are more likely to be seen by a different doctor each time whereas you will usually see the same doctor each time if you are going to a private doctor.
4. Because chain stores have a lot more money they can afford larger and more plush facilities, they have in store labs, larger inventories and longer hours.
In summary the private doctors offer more individual attention and the chain stores offer nicer facilities. Choose what matters most to you.
Here are your options:
Chain Optometrist: Probably has the most accessible hours. This is not where most optometrists aspire to practice. Most people don’t want to go to school 8 years only to have to work Saturdays and evenings. Often have a lot of people to see so they don’t spend a lot of time with each patient.
Private Practice Optometrist: Usually works for himself or a small group. Often slower paced. Most of the time they don’t have products to compete with the very cheapest stuff that chains have. Usually are competitive on the quality of products you really ought to be wearing. Dispensary staff is usually not as intent to push features you didn’t intend to buy. All optometrists have completed four years of optometry school after receiving a bachelor’s degree.
Ophthalmologist: A medical doctor that specializes in eyes. He can do surgery so he often is not interested in routine exams. Usually much of the testing is done by techs. Usually the most expensive exams. Often does not have an on site glasses dispensary.
This is the situation in the USA. Other parts of the world have other options,
I wholeheartedly agree with David E’s answer. Spot on.
Doc