Your eye test and prescription can be confusing, especially if you’ve never worn glasses or contact lenses before. However, once you’re aware of what to expect during your appointment and have a basic understanding of your prescription, you’ll realise that regular eye tests are just a routine that ultimately helps monitor your eye health and maintain your best vision possible.
All our eye tests are designed to check not only your prescription, but the health of your eyes and also to spot any possible eye conditions that may require further investigation. Depending on your age and family history, your optician may also carry out checks for conditions such as glaucoma and diabetes.
When you first arrive in branch for your appointment, we will check that your contact details, such as address, phone number and email address are correct and up to date. We will also confirm whether or not you are eligible for NHS eye care as there may be services that you are entitled to use for free. Plus if you currently wear glasses, please bring your most recent pair along with you.
During the pre-screening process we will determine the best way we can help you and fast-track the rest of your appointment. As part of the process we will:
If you have opted in for an OCT scan, your Optometrist will now conduct this scan as part of the pre-screening process to check the overall health of your eyes by allowing your them to view the structures of your eye in greater detail.
To find out how short or long sighted you are, your Optometrist will run a number of tests, including asking you to read letters and words, with the print becoming smaller as you progress. Your prescription will be determined by how many of these letters you manage to read clearly, before needing the help of a corrective lens.
They will also test whether one eye is stronger than the other and try a range of different powered lenses to see what correction, if any, you require.
Your Optometrist will also examine the back of the eye to find out how healthy your eyes are and check for any potential problems.
Once all the relevant tests have been carried out, your Optometrist will be able to discuss the results and offer any advice. They might talk you through particular lens options to match your prescription and lifestyle.
Your Optometrist will then give you a copy of your prescription (which will be unique to you and your vision) and can answer any further questions you may have. They can also help you understand and read your prescription, and will then recommend the best options for you.
You can then pick from our range of frames and lenses and there will be time after your test to try on different pairs to see which feel best.
