Getting your eyes tested – what you need to know
Having a regular vision test is relatively straightforward, but if it’s been a while since your last check up, or you’ve never had one, GMHBA Eye Care optometrist Daniel Strachan has created a guide to help understand the flow of a standard eye test.
What happens during an eye test?
Having your eyes examined normally takes up to 30 minutes. It may take longer if more detailed testing is required. Typically, an eye examination will begin with a conversation to understand more about you and your eyes. You will then be guided through the eye test assessment before we have a discussion to discuss your results and provide recommendations. Further details on the process are outlined below.
1. Welcome conversation and a detailed history check
Your optometrist will ask some general questions to understand if you are you having any specific problems or concerns with your eyes or vision, or if you are here for a routine check-up (and a new pair of glasses).
Discussion may then follow around your general health. For example, are you taking any medications and do you suffer from high blood pressure, high cholesterol, diabetes, or any other conditions? Your optometrist works closely with your GP and will keep them informed of any changes to your eye-health (with your permission).
History plays an important part in understanding what you may need. Have you ever worn contact lenses or had any eye infections or injuries in the past?
Your optometrist will also want to know about any health-related eye conditions in your family (do any members suffer from glaucoma or macular degeneration). It’s a good idea to talk to family members about any diagnosed eye conditions in case there may be something you should be keeping an eye out for.
2. Vision testing and measuring your prescription
Unaided vision (without glasses or contact lenses) is generally measured first. If you are a spectacle or contact lens wearer, vision will again be taken while you are wearing these. Patients should always try and remember to bring their glasses or contact lenses with them to their consultation.
Your optometrist will then determine your glasses prescription by asking you to choose between different lenses to see which one improves the clarity of your vision.
Binocular vision testing allows your optometrist to see if any undue stress is being placed on the muscles that control your eyes focusing and movement.
3. Eye health examination
Both the inside and outside of your eyes will be thoroughly examined, potentially identifying any health-related eye conditions that may be present. Pupil reflexes (the way the pupil responds to change) will also be observed.
Retinal photos or an OCT scan may be used to analyse the eye to a deeper level and monitor for future changes. This supports early diagnosis and intervention to keep your vision and eye health as good as it can be for as long as it can be.
Sometimes your optometrist may need to administer eye drops to enlarge your pupils for a more thorough internal eye assessment.
Measuring your eye pressure helps screen for glaucoma and is recommended for anyone over the age of 40.
4. Results and recommendations
Following the examination, your optometrist will carefully explain the results and discuss recommendations based on the clinical findings. This will include a summary of any eye-health conditions, (including any further testing that may be required) and benefit of any glasses or contact lenses.
Specialised glasses are often recommended to support your lifestyle, work and social demands.
How often should we have our eyes examined?
Eye test frequency really depends on your age and visual situation. The general rule is every two years, rising to annually after 65 years old, as outlined below.
| Age Group | Regularity of examination | Details |
|---|---|---|
|
Children |
Every 2-3 years |
Kids should be checked as babies and then again before they first start school. During school years, eye examinations every 2-3 years are generally acceptable unless vision problems or learning difficulties are present. In this case more frequent testing may often be required. |
|
Teenagers |
Every 2 years |
Two yearly examinations are recommended, however due to increased school and study demands teenagers may often report focusing difficulties, headaches and tried eyes. If this occurring more frequent testing may be encouraged. |
|
Adults under 65 |
Every 2 years |
More frequent testing may be required if specific eye problems are present. |
|
Over 65 |
Yearly |
Yearly check-ups are recommended. More frequent testing may be required if specific eye problems are present. |
Generally, your optometrist will notify you when you are due for you next eye examination. It is important to remember, however, you should always return sooner if you notice any changes to your vision or if you have any concerns.
What does an eye test cost?
At GMHBA Eye Care, most optometry consultations will be bulked billed.
Depending on your individual eye health needs, your optometrist may recommend additional diagnostic tests (such as OCT or retinal imaging) or in-room treatments (such as dry eye therapy), which may incur an out-of-pocket cost.
We will always discuss any recommended services and clearly explain any costs before proceeding, so you can make an informed decision about your care.
Do I need a referral to have my eyes tested by an optometrist?
No, a referral is not required. You can book a test yourself when you are due or believe your circumstances have changed.
What should I bring to my eye examination?
- Any current glasses/contact lenses
- A list of your medications
- GP details
- Ophthalmologist details (if applicable)
- Medicare card
- Pension card
- Details of any private health insurance
- Diary or calendar (if a follow-up appointment is required)
- Support person or guardian, if required
If you would like to have your eyes tested, you can book online at your preferred GMHBA Eye Care location.
About the author
Daniel graduated with a Bachelor of Commerce/Science from Monash University in 2008 and a Bachelor of Vision Science/Master of Optometry from Deakin University in 2015. Dan joined GMHBA as an Optometrist in 2015, continuing his family’s long history in the profession. He currently balances the role of Optometrist with responsibilities as the Location Manager at GMHBA Waurn Ponds.
