Refraction is sometimes necessary depending on the patient’s diagnosis and/or complaints presented that day. For example, if a patient is experiencing blurred vision refraction is necessary to determine if there is a need for glasses or if it is due to a medical problem. Also, if it is due to a medical problem, the refraction can be used to aid in tracking the severity of a condition or the progress of recovery. Refraction is also necessary to provide information to insurance companies for cataract surgery. We must prove that your vision cannot be simply improved with a glasses prescription.

Most insurances consider refraction a non-covered service. Refraction is an essential part of an eye exam; however, Medicare and most insurance companies DO NOT cover it. In the past, we did not charge for this service, however due to the increasing costs of healthcare and the decreasing payments from insurance companies and we can longer absorb these costs.

Refraction is the process of determining a glasses prescription. Different lenses are placed in front of the eye and the patient is asked which lens allows them to see more clearly.

Yes you may, however, if you decline we will not be able to determine if there is any change in your vision and therefore the cause of it. We cannot prescribe contact lenses or glasses without performing a refraction.

The refraction fee is $75. This fee is collected at the time of service in addition to your co-pay and/or deductible.

NOTE: This fee is due and payable whether or not you receive a written prescription. Sometimes the change in your glasses/contacts is not significant enough to warrant the cost of purchasing new glasses. The fee covers the technician and/or physician’s time and expertise in providing the refraction.