If you have not had your eyes tested in a while, or if this is your first time visiting an optometrist, knowing what to expect makes the whole process much less daunting. This guide covers everything you need to know before your eye test at Prime Optometrists Auburn NSW 2144.
Who Should Be Getting an Eye Test?
The short answer is everyone, at some point. But here are the groups for whom regular testing is particularly important:
- Adults aged 40 and over, even with no symptoms
- Children from age 3 to 4 and before starting school
- Anyone with a family history of glaucoma, macular degeneration, or diabetes
- Diabetics (annual testing recommended)
- Prescription wearers who notice their vision has changed
- People experiencing headaches, eye strain, or difficulty with screens
- Anyone who has not had a test in two or more years
For a detailed breakdown by age group, read: How Often Should I Get My Eyes Tested in Australia?
What to Bring
- Your Medicare card: Required for bulk billing. Without it, you may be charged for the consultation.
- Your current glasses: Even if you think your prescription is outdated. We will check them against your new prescription.
- Your private health fund card: If you plan to claim glasses or contact lenses on the same visit. HICAPS processes the claim on the spot.
- A list of any medications you take: Some medications affect intraocular pressure and pupil response, which is relevant to the examination.
- Any previous prescription or test results if you have them, though this is not essential.
What Happens During the Eye Test?
A comprehensive eye examination at our Auburn clinic covers far more than just reading a letter chart. The appointment typically includes:
- Case history: We ask about your symptoms, lifestyle, occupation, general health, family history, and any specific concerns.
- Visual acuity: Distance and near vision testing using charts.
- Refraction: Determining your glasses or contact lens prescription using a combination of automated and manual tests.
- Intraocular pressure: Measured using applanation tonometry, a key screening test for glaucoma.
- Slit lamp examination: A detailed microscopic examination of the anterior eye including the cornea, lens, and conjunctiva.
- Retinal assessment: Examination of the optic nerve and retina. OCT imaging may be recommended for a more detailed scan.
- Colour vision and visual field testing where clinically indicated.
Read the full breakdown: What Does an Optometrist Actually Check During an Eye Test?
How Long Does It Take?
A standard comprehensive eye examination takes approximately 25 minutes. If you are also selecting frames or contact lenses at the same visit, allow extra time for that.
Will It Hurt? Can I Drive After?
The examination is entirely non-invasive and painless. In most cases you can drive immediately after. The one exception is if your pupils are dilated for a more detailed retinal assessment, which temporarily affects your ability to focus at distance and makes you sensitive to bright light. If dilation is planned, we will let you know in advance so you can arrange a lift if needed.
How Much Does It Cost?
The eye examination is bulk billed under Medicare for all eligible patients. This means the full cost is covered by Medicare and your out-of-pocket cost is zero. There is no gap fee for the consultation at our clinic.
Glasses and contact lenses are not covered by Medicare, but may be partially or fully covered by your private health fund optical extras. Read: What Is a Bulk Billed Eye Test and Am I Eligible?
How to Book
You can book online at any time via our website, or call us on (02) 9761 0005 during opening hours. We are open six days a week.
We are located at 43 Auburn Road, Auburn NSW 2144, with street parking available on Auburn Road and a short walk from Auburn station (T2 line). We see patients from across the Auburn LGA and surrounding suburbs including Berala, Regents Park, Lidcombe, Granville, Parramatta, Merrylands, Strathfield, and beyond. No referral is required.