Frequently Asked Questions

We recommend a routine vision exam every year. School age children and those over 65 years old should have their vision evaluated annually, as the eyes frequently change during these times. Contact lens wearers and those with certain medical conditions like diabetes or high blood pressure should also see us every year. Many serious eye diseases have no early symptoms and require early treatment to prevent loss of vision. By scheduling an annual screening, you give your eyes the best chance of staying healthy and clear. Learn more about routine eye exams.

We encourage every patient to write down questions that they want to ask the doctor or staff before their visit. We take your health very seriously, and believe the better informed you are the greater the benefit to your vision and health.

There can be multiple causes of unusual visual phenomena. While some are harmless, others need immediate attention and you should call your eye doctor right away to be sure a serious problem, such as retinal detachment, is not occurring. If no other symptoms are present, you’ll want to schedule an appointment with your eye doctor during regular business hours. If additional symptoms are present such as nausea, confusion, headache or fever, call 911 or have someone drive you to your local emergency room for evaluation.

If you have a condition that you consider to be an emergency, we want to see you and will make every attempt to work you into our schedule as soon as possible. If we are unavailable or immediate attention is needed, please call 911 or go to your nearest emergency room for support.

It is important to check the details of your policy with your insurance provider prior to scheduling an appointment with us. For other questions related to insurance and claims submission, including workers compensation and all surgical procedure claims, please contact our billing department.

Yes, we are a participating provider for Medicare. This means that we limit our charges to the amount approved. Of this fee, Medicare pays 80% and the patient is responsible for the remaining 20% and any deductible not met. We will submit your claims for eye care services directly to Medicare on your behalf. Medicare pays for all “medically necessary” services. Refractions (examinations for glasses) are not covered and the fee is payable at the time of the exam.

We accept all major credit cards for those patients who do not want to pay in full. We are also pleased to participate with Care Credit, a revolving credit line just for medical and dental services. In just a few seconds, we can verify if you qualify for this program, which offers convenient monthly payments.

No. All of our doctors see patients in both Medford and Grants Pass. You may make your appointment at the office that is most convenient for you.

We receive referrals for specialty care from a wide geographic area, and we work with many patients who travel long distances to see us. Most of those patients have regular eye doctors in their hometown and we are experienced in coordinating care in those situations. If you wish to have some of your care shared with your regular provider, please let us know. Your doctor at Medical Eye Center will evaluate your status after treatment and determine medically if and when your care can be transferred. Your regular provider must have the appropriate training and experience, and be willing to assume care. Even if your eye care is being shared or transferred, you can always return to your doctor at Medical Eye Center for any questions or concerns.

Yes. If you use a computer regularly, it is likely you’ll develop Computer Vision Syndrome (CVS). CVS is not serious, but can be quite uncomfortable. Symptoms can be alleviated with the support of special glasses. Learn more about Computer Vision Syndrome.

Studies indicate a relationship between eyes that are unprotected from the sun’s UV rays and conditions like cataracts and macular degeneration. Protect your eyes year round by investing in good quality sunglasses. Our optical department has a number of styles to choose from and all our frames can be fitted with prescription lenses.

It’s an excellent idea to carry a copy of your eyeglass prescription and an extra pair of glasses with you when you travel. Even if the extra glasses are not your latest prescription, you could still function while having a new pair made. If you call our office, we will rush you a new pair as fast as possible.

Yes. We specialize in prescription scuba masks and ski goggles that allow our patients to enjoy their sports clearly. We also provide prescription swim goggles, sports wear and respirator inserts.