Comprehensive Eye Exams in Boise
There’s more to an eye exam than figuring out if you need new glasses. We’ll check how well you’re seeing, take a close look at your eye health, and answer any questions along the way. Here’s what you can expect during your visit.
Why Regular Eye Exams Matter
When was the last time you had an eye exam? If you can’t remember, then it’s time to get your eyes checked!
Even if your vision seems perfectly fine, your eyes can tell us a lot about your health. A comprehensive eye exam can catch early signs of eye diseases before you notice symptoms and may even reveal signs of health conditions like high blood pressure, diabetes, and high cholesterol.
Regular eye exams help us catch changes early, keep an eye on them over time, and step in when needed.
What to Expect During Your Eye Exam
Visiting a new eye doctor can feel a little intimidating, especially if it’s been a while since your last eye exam. We want your visit to feel comfortable, thorough, and easy to understand. Here’s what you can expect during your appointment.
Check-In & Registration
We’ll verify your information, insurance, and medical history and ask about any vision changes or concerns. Be sure to tell us about symptoms like blurry vision, headaches, dry eyes, flashes, or floaters.
Initial Testing
Before you see Dr. Ball, we’ll perform a few tests to check your vision and eye health, including measuring your eye pressure. We’ll also discuss retinal imaging and dilation so you know your options.
Eye Exam with Dr. Ball
Dr. Ball will review your test results, check your prescription, and examine the health of your eyes. Have questions or concerns? Ask away. We want you to understand what’s going on with your vision.
Special Testing
If something needs a closer look, Dr. Ball may recommend additional eye testing. If you need to see an ophthalmologist or another specialist, we’ll explain why and help you with the next steps.
Glasses & Contacts
Need glasses or contacts? Our optical team can help you find the right fit for your vision and lifestyle. If you’re new to contacts, we’ll also teach you how to safely insert, remove, and care for them.
Check Out
Before you leave, we’ll take care of any follow-up appointments, glasses or contact lens orders, and paperwork you need. You’ll leave knowing what we found and what comes next.
Check-In & Registration
We’ll verify your information, insurance, and medical history and ask about any vision changes or concerns. Be sure to tell us about symptoms like blurry vision, headaches, dry eyes, flashes, or floaters.
Initial Tests with a Technican
Before you see Dr. Ball, we’ll perform a few tests to check your vision and eye health, including measuring your eye pressure. We’ll also discuss retinal imaging and dilation so you know your options.
Eye Exam with Dr. Ball
Dr. Ball will review your test results, check your prescription, and examine the health of your eyes. Have questions or concerns? Ask away. We want you to understand what’s going on with your vision.
Special Testing
If something needs a closer look, Dr. Ball may recommend additional eye testing. If you need to see an ophthalmologist or another specialist, we’ll explain why and help you with the next steps.
Glasses & Contacts
Need glasses or contacts? Our optical team can help you find the right fit for your vision and lifestyle. If you’re new to contacts, we’ll also teach you how to safely insert, remove, and care for them.
Check Out
Before you leave, we’ll take care of any follow-up appointments, glasses or contact lens orders, and paperwork you need. You’ll leave knowing what we found and what comes next.
A Closer Look at Eye Health
During your eye exam, we’ll need to get a good look at the health of the back of your eyes. Retinal imaging and dilation help us do that in different ways.
Retinal Imaging
Retinal imaging takes detailed pictures of the inside of your eyes in just a few moments. Those images become part of your record, allowing us to look closely at your retina and compare changes from year to year. Available for $30.
Why patients like it:
- No eye drops
- No blurry vision or light sensitivity afterward
- Quick and easy
- Images can be compared over time
dilation
Dilation uses eye drops to temporarily enlarge your pupils, giving Dr. Ball a wider view inside your eyes. It can be especially important when symptoms or exam findings require a closer look.
What to know:
- Often covered by insurance
- Pupils can stay enlarged for several hours
- May cause temporary blurry vision and light sensitivity
- Recommended when certain areas need a closer look
Frequently Asked Questions
How often you need an eye exam depends on your age, eye health, medical history, and risk factors. Generally, the American Optometric Association recommends:
- Adults under 60: Every 1–2 years
- Adults 60+: Annually
- Those with risk factors: Annually or as directed by your eye doctor.
Yes! Seeing clearly doesn’t always mean your eyes are healthy. Some eye conditions can develop without noticeable symptoms, which is why regular comprehensive eye exams are important even when your vision hasn’t changed.
Not necessarily. Many patients can choose retinal imaging for a $30 fee instead of dilation. Dilation is often covered by insurance, while retinal imaging typically is not. Dr. Ball may still recommend dilation based on your symptoms, risk factors, or something found during your exam.
A comprehensive eye exam typically takes about 30-45 minutes.
Bring your current glasses or contact lenses, insurance information, a list of medications, and any questions or concerns you have about your vision or eye health.
Coverage depends on your insurance plan and the reason for your visit. Our team can help verify your benefits and explain your expected costs before your appointment. Learn more about the insurances we accept and other payment options.
Your Path to Clear Vision Starts Here
Emerald Point is your top choice for eye care in Boise. We’re committed to providing you with personalized and comprehensive eye care. Schedule your eye exam today and take the first step towards maintaining healthy vision for life.