Frequently Asked Questions

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How long is an eye exam?

A routine eye exam for someone with no complications should take between 20 and 30 minutes. For patients who are older, an eye exam may take longer. Patients with eye or general health complications such as high blood pressure, diabetes, or glaucoma, may also require an extended exam.

What should I expect at an eye exam?

 

Your eye exam will include a variety of tests to assess your vision, as well as examination of your eye. You'll be tested for colour vision defiency and depth perception, as well as measurements of the pressure inside your eyes, your existing prescription(s) and any upgrades required, screenings for glaucoma and diabetic retinopathy, review of any health concerns or family history concerns, and an assessment of the back of your eyes using retinal photos.

Children under the age of 18 and those over 65 years old will receive all tests listed above with the exception of retinal photos. These photos can be provided if requested by the patient.

What should I bring to my eye exam?

Bringing a few key items to your appointment can help us better meet your eye care needs.

What To Bring To Your Eye Exam at Sunridge Eye Clinic:

  1. Any prescription glasses, sunglasses, or contact lenses
  2. Any eye drops you are using
  3. Any medications and supplements (if you don't want to bring the actual items, a list or photos of the labels can be a good option)
  4. Your insurance information

It can also be helpful to keep a brief family history of significant medical conditions in mind, as this is a question your eye doctor might ask about. Your optometrist might also ask about your medical history, including recent eye injuries or surgeries.

Do you offer direct billing?

 

Direct billing helps your appointments run that much more smoothly: no receipts or reimbursements to worry about! Sunridge Eye Clinic offers direct billing to a number of major insurance companies. For a full list of our direct billing partners, simply click the button below!

Where are you located?

We are conveniently located at Sunridge Mall, which is conveniently accessible by LRT. Our offices are located centrally in the mall and can be accessed through two entrances: the one facing 32nd Street NE, and the one facing 36th Street NE. We're located next to Pearle Vision, so you can easily browse glasses after or while waiting for your appointment. Click the button below to get directions, and if you have any questions, simply give us a call at  (403) 280-7518.

How much will my eye exam cost?

The cost of an eye exam can vary for each patient depending on a variety of factors including their age, the reason for visit, and insurance provider. For details, or a quick cost estimate based on your situation, please don't hesitate to contact us. 

Who is covered by Alberta Health Care?

Alberta Health Care Insurance Plan (AHCIP) covers yearly eye exams for children and teenagers up to the age of 18. Coverage for annual eye exams is also provided for those aged 65 and up. Additionally, the province's health insurance plan covers emergency visits to an eye doctor, so if you're having a vision emergency, you can call us without worrying about dealing with high bills after the fact. For more information about emergency visits, please click on the button below.

How long will it take my eyes to adjust to a new prescription?

Sometimes, it can take time to adjust to your new glasses, especially if your eyes have been compensating for no prescription, or a weak one. A different frame size or lens dimension can also be difficult to adjust to at first. If your prescription has been updated, you've switched to progressive lenses, or if you're wearing glasses for the first time, you may experience symptoms such as distorted vision, a “fishbowl” effect, mild headaches, or eye strain. This discomfort will typically last a few days, and the best way to ensure you adjust quickly is by wearing your glasses as prescribed. However, if you are still experiencing discomfort after a week or two, give your optometrist a call to schedule a follow-up.  

What is a progressive lens?

A progressive lens gives you two or three vision powers in one lineless lens, which provides you with a more aesthetic and natural way to view the world. By adjusting your head and eye position, you will be able to see far away, mid-range, and close-up. Some progressive lenses have the varying powers arranged vertically, while others have the strengths in different positions that specialize the glasses for certain tasks, such as computer use. Others have a design that cuts down on fatigue. A thorough consultation can help you find the right option for you.

What is a retinal photo?

A retinal photo is a digital picture of the back of your eye. This image helps your eye doctors get a better view of your eye health. This picture allows your Calgary eye doctor to examine:

  • The retina, where light and images hit
  • The optic disk a spot on the retina that holds the optic nerve, which sends information to the brain
  • Blood vessels 

Patients with diabetes, macular degeneration, glaucoma, and retinal toxicity are highly encouraged to take this test. 

How do I find the right contact lenses?

At Sunridge Mall Eye Clinic, our Calgary eye doctors always perform comprehensive eye exams. This allows us to ensure that your corrective lenses are the right prescription and suitable for your eyes. We also have a variety of different types of contacts. These range from disposable, to soft, to daily and extended wear lenses. Whether you've always worn contacts or are looking for your first pair, our team will help you find the best lenses for your lifestyle.

What is diabetic retinopathy and why is early detection crucial?

Diabetic retinopathy is a complication of diabetes that affects the retina and can lead to blindness if undetected. Early detection ensures timely intervention, preventing severe vision loss.

How does AI improve the accuracy of diagnosing diabetic retinopathy?

AI uses intricate algorithms that learn from vast datasets of retinal images, enabling it to identify subtle changes that might be overlooked even by trained professionals, enhancing diagnostic precision.

Will AI replace ophthalmologists in diagnosing diabetic retinopathy?

No, while AI serves as a powerful diagnostic aid, it will not replace the expertise and care of medical professionals. Instead, it acts as a complementary tool to help doctors provide the best care possible.

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