Question 1

How often should I have an eye exam?

Accepted Answer

Most adults and children should be seen once a year. If you're managing diabetes, glaucoma, or another eye condition, or if you wear contact lenses, we may recommend more frequent visits.

Question 2

Do you see children?

Accepted Answer

Yes. We care for patients from infancy through adulthood, and pediatric exams are a core part of what we do at all three offices.

Question 3

What insurance do you accept?

Accepted Answer

We accept most major vision and medical insurance plans. Because coverage changes, please call the office nearest you to confirm your specific plan before your visit.

Question 4

What should I bring to my first appointment?

Accepted Answer

Bring your insurance cards, a photo ID, your current glasses and contact lens boxes, a list of medications, and your completed patient forms.

Question 5

Is an eye exam covered by medical or vision insurance?

Accepted Answer

Routine vision exams are typically billed to vision plans, while exams for a medical concern such as dry eye, infection, or diabetes are usually billed to medical insurance. Our staff will explain which applies to your visit.

Question 6

Can I be seen the same day for an eye emergency?

Accepted Answer

Call the office nearest you right away and we will advise you on the fastest way to be seen. If the situation is urgent — sudden vision loss, eye trauma, or severe pain — go to the nearest emergency room.

Question 7

Do you offer payment options?

Accepted Answer

Yes. We offer Sunbit monthly payment options so you can spread the cost of eyewear and care over time, with a quick application at checkout.

Question 8

How long does an appointment take?

Accepted Answer

Plan on about an hour for a comprehensive exam. Contact lens evaluations and dilated exams can take a little longer.

Question 9

Do you accept walk-ins?

Accepted Answer

We see patients by appointment. If you have an urgent problem such as an eye injury, a red painful eye, or sudden vision changes, call the office nearest you immediately for guidance.

Question 10

How does Sunbit financing work?

Accepted Answer

Sunbit lets you spread the cost of glasses, contacts, or care over monthly payments. The application takes about thirty seconds at checkout, does not affect your credit score to check, and most patients get an answer immediately.

Question 11

What happens during a contact lens fitting?

Accepted Answer

A contact lens evaluation adds corneal measurements and a tear film check to your exam, because a lens sits directly on the eye. You will try a trial pair, wear them for a few days, and return so we can confirm the fit, the vision, and the health of your cornea before the prescription is finalized.

Question 12

At what age should a child have a first eye exam?

Accepted Answer

Around six months for a first check, again before kindergarten, and yearly once school begins. A child can have 20/20 eyesight and still have a focusing or eye-teaming problem that makes reading exhausting, which is why a full exam is different from a school screening.

Question 13

What can be done about chronic dry eye?

Accepted Answer

A great deal. We evaluate tear quality, tear volume, and the oil glands along the eyelids, then build a plan that treats the cause — lid care, targeted prescription therapy, or in-office treatment — rather than adding another over-the-counter drop.

Question 14

Will my eyes be dilated, and can I drive afterward?

Accepted Answer

Dilation is often part of a comprehensive exam because it gives the clearest view of the retina. Expect light sensitivity and blurry near vision for two to four hours. Most patients drive themselves home with sunglasses, but bring a driver if you would feel more comfortable.

Question 15

Can you treat an eye emergency instead of the ER?

Accepted Answer

In most cases, yes. We have the slit lamp and instruments needed for foreign bodies, corneal abrasions, sudden red eye, and flashes or floaters — usually faster and at lower cost than an emergency department. Call us first unless the injury involves the face or head more broadly.

Frequently asked questions

Book at your nearest location

Roanoke — Electric Rd.

Roanoke — Valley View

Rocky Mount — S. Main St.