What to Expect
Because of the thoroughness and complexity of your eye examination, please allow 2-4 hours for your appointment.
Your appointment may include an assessment by an ophthalmic technician, diagnostic imaging testing, your provider’s examination and possible course of treatment. As a teaching institution, in addition to your eye care provider you may also be seen by a resident or fellow in training during your appointment.
Your appointment will consist of these steps:
- Check-In (15 minutes): We ask that you please arrive 15 minutes before your scheduled appointment. Once you arrive in our clinic you will begin the check in process, including updating your health insurance and payment information. Payments will be made at this time.
- Ophthalmic Technician Initial Assessment (Approx. 60 minutes): An ophthalmic technician will begin the assessment (30 minutes) and dilation of your eyes if needed (30 minutes).
- Diagnostic Imaging Testing if needed (Approx. 60 minutes, depending on type of testing required)
- Your Exam by Provider (Approx. 15 to 60 minutes based upon the complexity of your eye condition): Your doctor will meet with you for the examination, diagnosis and explanation of treatment, and to discuss your questions or concerns.
- Treatment if needed(30 minutes): Based upon your doctor’s diagnosis, additional treatments may be performed.
- Check-Out (10 minutes): Future appointments will be scheduled
What to Bring
Please bring these items to your appointment:
- Prescription eyeglasses or contact lenses
- Sunglasses (for light sensitivity after your examination)
- List of all your current medications (including eye drops)
- Pertinent medical records
- A photo ID
- Names, e-mail address and fax numbers for your physicians
- Proof of insurance coverage
- Authorization or referral forms if required by your insurance company
- Refreshments (snacks/ beverages)
- Questions for your doctor
Your Child’s Visit
Please bring the items listed above in addition to the following:
- Bottles, baby formula, and diapers for infants
- Favorite toy or other special items needed for your child’s comfort
- Any needed legal papers if applicable
Children under 18 years of age must be accompanied by a parent or legal guardian, including all pre-admission and surgical procedures. In the case of a legal guardian, an official court letter of guardianship must be provided.
Payments and Insurance/Health Plan Coverage
Co-payments are collected at the time of your appointment. We accept cash, personal check, MasterCard, Visa, Discover, and American Express. If you have questions regarding your insurance coverage, contact your insurance carrier directly. Accepted health insurance plans.
24 Hour Change/Cancellation Notice
If you must change or cancel your appointment please give 24 hour notice. You can change or cancel your appointment by calling our Patient Appointment Offices.
Adults: (314) 362-3937 (EYES) Children: (314) 454-6026
Language Services
Washington University will take steps necessary to ensure that patients with disabilities, including those with sensory impairments (hearing, visual or speech) or limited English proficiency (interpreter services) receive effective information concerning benefits, services, rights, waivers of rights, or consent to treatment. All aids needed to provide this information are provided without cost to the person being served.
Please let the scheduling team know if you are interested in using our interpreter services.
The University utilizes interpreter and sign language service provided by Barnes-Jewish Hospital. Contact information:
Barnes-Jewish Hospital
Language Services
314-747-5682
Interpretive services are available 24 hours a day, 7 days a week.