FAQs
Q: How many optomap® Retinal Exams have been performed?
A: As of January 2007 over 10 million optomap® Retinal Exams have been performed in our markets.
Q: How soon will the doctor see the results?
A: A digital image of your retina is immediately displayed for your doctor to review with you.
Q: What does the optomap® Retinal Exam tell the doctor?
A: The optomap® Retinal Exam allows the doctor to assess the health of your retina.
Q: Why is it important for the doctor to look at the retina?
A: The sensitive tissue that makes up the retina is susceptible to a variety of diseases. It is essential to catch any problems early in their progression to avoid vision loss.
Q: If I don't have an optomap® Retinal Exam, will I still get a good exam?
A: Your doctor will still give a good exam, however you should know that you will be depriving your doctor of a tool that is proven to help them to detect problems earlier.
Q: What age groups are candidates for the optomap® Retinal Exam?
A: Anyone can have their eyes examined with the optomap® Retinal Exam, from children to adults to the elderly.
Q: Can I wear my contact lenses during the optomap® Retinal Exam?
A: Yes.
Q: Will the optomap® Retinal Exam detect if I have cataracts?
A: No, the optomap® Retinal Exam is imaging the back of your eye, and cataracts are a problem that occurs on the front of your eye. The optomap® Retinal Exam will tell you if you have diseases such as diabetic retinopathy, hypertensive retinopathy, retinal holes, tears and detachments, macular degeneration, malignant melanomas and many other retinal disorders.
Q: How long does it take to have an optomap® Retinal Exam?
A: A digital image of your retina is captured in less than a second.
Q: I don't have any complaints; I see well, why should I get this?
A: Many retinal conditions do not produce symptoms such as pain. When detected early enough, many retinal problems can be treated to avoid vision loss. However, once a retinal problem has caused a loss in vision, it is almost never reversible. Early detection is vital to preserving good eye health.
Q: I have a family history of diabetes, should I have this done? Why?
A: It is particularly important for people who are at risk for diabetes to have an optomap® Retinal Exam since they are particularly prone to problems with the retina that could lead to vision loss.
Q: If I have this done, will I still need to have my eyes dilated?
A: There is no need for dilating drops with the optomap® Retinal Exam. However, if your doctor should see an area that they feel is suspicious, he/she may dilate your eyes and examine them further using other methods.
Q: Does this mean I will not be dilated? My doctor has told me I always need to be dilated.
A: The optomap® Retinal Exam gives the doctor a comprehensive view of your retina without dilating your eyes. With the optomap® Retinal Exam, it is possible to avoid dilation in most cases although your doctor may still wish to dilate your eyes.
Q: Can I drive after having the optomap® Retinal Exam?
A: Yes, the optomap® Retinal Exam will NOT blur your vision or make your eyes sensitive to light.
Q: Does having the optomap® Retinal Exam hurt?
A: No, the optomap® Retinal Exam is very comfortable, quick and painless.
Q: How often is it recommended to have an optomap® Retinal Exam done?
A: The optomap® Retinal Exam should be part of every comprehensive eye exam, and you should have your eyes completely examined once per year. NOTE: This may vary for diabetic or other patients who have known conditions and are being managed by their doctor.
Q: Will this change my prescription? Will I need glasses after this?
A: The optomap® Retinal Exam will not change the current health of your eye, only help your doctor to better diagnose the health of your retina.
Q: I am pregnant. Can I have the test done?
A: Yes.
Q: Why do you have to take so many "pictures" of my eyes?
A: Unless there are problems found, or your doctor needs more information, the optomap® Retinal Exam will be the only picture of your retina taken at your visit.
Q: Why do I have to pay extra for this exam? Why isn't this covered by Insurance?
A: Unfortunately, vision coverage plans do not offer coverage for advanced diagnostic screening.
Q: Is my co-pay included in this fee?
A: No.