How do I know if I have an eye problem? Sometimes you don't, which is why you should have your eyes examined on a routine basis. (Click on the link at the bottom of the page to find out how frequently you should see your Dotor of Optometry.) Sometimes there are obvious signs or symptoms that alert you to an eye problem and some of those are given in the table below. The best rule is to have your eyes examined if you have any suspicion that there may be a problem - even if it seems minor. If you are concerned but not sure what to do, you can always call the clinic and ask to speak to a doctor (205) 975-2020.
For after hours emergencies, there is a doctor on-call nights, weekends and holidays. (205) 975-2020
Signs and symptoms of eye problems that need immediate attention include:
- Sudden Blurred Vision
- Sudden Loss of Vision
- Sudden Increase in Floaters
- Red Eye
- Discharge from the Eye
- Any Eye Injury
- Eye Pain
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How often should I have my eyes examined? A general rule, based on the
1997 American Optometric Association Guidelines, is the following:
| AGE |
EYE EXAM FREQUENCY |
| 0-24 months |
....by 6 months of age |
| 2-5 years |
....at 3-4 years of age |
| 6-18 years |
....by 1st grade, then every year |
| 18-50 years |
....every 1-2 years |
| 51 and older |
....every year |
However, different eye conditions will require different frequencies of follow-up so you should follow your optometrist's recommendation since it is specific for your eyes and vision.
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What if I think I have an eye emergency? During normal clinic hours, simply call the clinic and ask for help.
A doctor is "on call" 24 hours a day, every day of the year! If you believe that you have an eye emergency after hours, on a weekend or holiday, call (205) 975-2020. Listen for the instructions about how to reach the doctor on call.
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My insurance will only pay for an eye exam if I have a "Medical Diagnosis." What is that? Some insurance plans will not pay for a general or routine eye exam but will pay if the patient has a
medical diagnosis. This means that the patient has an abnormal eye health condition that requires periodic monitoring or treatment other than glasses. Examples of conditions that are considered to have a
medical diagnosis are glaucoma, cataracts, diabetic retinopathy, retinal detachment and many others.
Conditions that do not qualify as having a medical diagnosis include hyperopia (farsighted), myopia (nearsighted) and astigmatism.
If your insurance will only pay for a medical diagnosis and you do not have one, it becomes your responsibility to pay for the eye examination.
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Who will examine my eyes? All eye examinations are performed under the direct supervision of a licensed doctor. Because we are a training center for young people preparing to become licensed doctors, these interns do much of the preliminary testing. The attending doctor then verifies or repeats key parts of the examination. The attending doctor will be the one who signs your medical record. The attending doctor also signs all prescriptions for medicines, glasses or contact lenses and bears the final responsibility for your eye care. Licensed doctors who are receiving advanced and specialized training in our residency and fellowhip programs also provide eye care in our clinical services.
Privacy Policy
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Can anyone have their eyes examined at UAB Eye Care? Yes. Our clinic is open to anyone - just call and make an appointment at (205) 975-2020.
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What if the weather is bad? Snow, ice or a hurricane? When UAB clinics must be closed, the closings are announced on WBHM 90.3 FM. You may also find information on the UAB website and by listening to local radio and television announcements.
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How do I make an appointment? Anyone may receive care from our clinics. Appointments are available Monday through Friday between 8 AM and 5 PM with some early evening appointments for pediatric patients receiving vision therapy.
You may schedule an appointment by calling the general appointment number or by calling any of the specialty services.
General Appointment Information: (205) 975-2020
Appointments can be made in following specific services:
|
Service |
| Primary Care Optometry Service |
| Cornea & Contact Lens Service |
| Pediatric Optometry Service |
| Ocular Disease & Low Vision Service |
| Optical Services |
Emergencies
During normal work hours, call any service and ask for assistance. After hours, a doctor is on-call 24/7, 365 days a year for emergency care only. Call (205) 975-2020 and listen for instructions about how to reach the doctor on call.
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