Tips for choosing an eye-care provider

When selecting an eye care provider to meet your individual needs, it is important to understand the differences in education, training, credentials and experience levels that distinguish one type of eye care provider from another.  (See Eye Care Provider Team)

Use these tips when selecting an eye care provider:  

• Know what your needs are when going to an eye care provider. If you don’t know what you need to have done, ask your primary care doctor.

• Look for diplomas, licenses, and other qualifications and certifications displayed publicly at the office.

• Ask the provider is he/she has sufficient training and experience to perform the procedure you need, especially when the procedure is more invasive than a regular office visit.

• If your eye care needs include surgery or treatment with medications, ask your provider if he or she is trained and licensed to perform these services.  Ask how many times he or she has performed the service, and what kind of side effects and recovery time you can expect.

• If you do not have access to or are unsure about the eye care provider you need, ask your primary care doctor for a recommendation to properly address your needs. 

If you encounter a problem in your treatment by an eye care provider that can not be resolved with the provider, do not hesitate to contact the state agency that oversees the conduct of the provider.