Frequently Asked Questions
Find answers to common questions about our services, insurance, and eye health.
General
Do you accept walk-in patients?
We primarily see patients by appointment to minimize wait times and ensure each patient receives thorough, unhurried care. However, we do our best to accommodate same-day appointments when available. Please call our office to check availability.
What are your office hours?
Our hours vary by location. Both our Oak Park Mall and South Overland Park offices are open Monday through Friday, with select evening and Saturday appointments available. Please visit our Locations page or call us for current hours at each office.
What should I bring to my eye exam?
Please bring your current eyeglasses or contact lenses, your insurance card, a list of medications you are currently taking, and any previous eye care records if available. If you are a new patient, arriving 10 to 15 minutes early to complete paperwork is helpful.
How long does a comprehensive eye exam take?
A comprehensive eye exam typically takes 30 to 60 minutes depending on the tests required. If dilation is needed, plan for additional time as your pupils may take 20 to 30 minutes to fully dilate, and your near vision may be blurry for a few hours afterward.
Insurance & Billing
What insurance plans do you accept?
We accept over 70 vision and medical insurance plans including VSP, EyeMed, Blue Cross Blue Shield, Aetna, UnitedHealthcare, Medicare, and many more. Visit our Insurance page for a complete list, or call our office to verify your specific plan.
How much does an eye exam cost without insurance?
The cost of an eye exam without insurance varies depending on the type of exam and any additional testing needed. We are happy to provide a cost estimate when you schedule your appointment. We also offer competitive self-pay rates and can discuss payment options with you.
Do you bill medical insurance for eye conditions?
Yes. When your visit is related to a medical eye condition such as dry eye, glaucoma, cataracts, or diabetic eye disease, we bill your medical insurance rather than your vision plan. Our staff will help determine the appropriate billing based on the reason for your visit.
Contact Lenses
Can I order contact lenses online through your office?
Yes, many of our patients take advantage of convenient online ordering through our office. After your contact lens fitting and prescription are finalized, we can set you up with easy reordering options. Contact our office for details on how to get started.
I have never worn contacts before. Can I still get fitted?
Absolutely. We regularly fit first-time contact lens wearers of all ages. Your fitting appointment includes training on how to insert, remove, and care for your lenses. Our staff will make sure you feel comfortable and confident before you leave the office.
How often should I replace my contact lenses?
Replacement schedules depend on the type of lens your doctor prescribes. Daily disposable lenses are discarded after each use, while other lenses may be replaced every two weeks or monthly. Following the recommended schedule is important for maintaining healthy eyes and clear vision.
Eye Health
How often should I have an eye exam?
The American Optometric Association recommends a comprehensive eye exam every one to two years for adults, and annually for children, seniors, and anyone with risk factors such as diabetes, a family history of eye disease, or a current prescription. Your doctor may recommend a different schedule based on your individual needs.
When should my child have their first eye exam?
Children should have their first comprehensive eye exam at six months of age, again at three years old, and before starting first grade. After that, annual exams are recommended throughout the school years. Early detection of vision problems is critical for academic success and healthy development.
Can screen time damage my eyes?
Extended screen use does not cause permanent eye damage, but it can lead to digital eye strain, which includes symptoms like dry eyes, headaches, blurred vision, and neck or shoulder pain. We recommend following the 20-20-20 rule: every 20 minutes, look at something 20 feet away for at least 20 seconds.
When should I see a doctor for an eye problem?
You should seek prompt care if you experience sudden vision changes, flashes of light, new floaters, eye pain, redness that does not resolve, or any eye injury. Professional Eyecare offers same-day emergency appointments for urgent eye conditions. Do not wait if something feels wrong with your vision.
Still have questions?
Our team is happy to help. Reach out and we will get back to you as soon as possible.