Not Just a Sight Test: Why Those 'Extra' Eye Photos Matter More Than You Think

As an Optometrist, I wish everybody understood how important retinal imaging actually is. Also, not all retinal imaging is the same... an OCT, vs. a fundus photo, vs. a wide-field retinal photo (i.e., optomap) are all very different, but important for different aspects of your eye health exam. I wouldn't feel comfortable giving an eye exam without this imaging included, and I would never recommend any of my family or friends to get an eye exam anywhere that doesn't have this technology.

I have found countless asymptomatic retinal holes, tears, and even in some cases detachment that would lead to vision loss if not detected and left untreated. I actually had a young boy in for a routine annual exam a few weeks ago that needed to be sent to retina for treatments, and neither he nor his mom had a clue anything was wrong. I have seen many occurrences of eye cancers in images that patients were unaware of as there were no symptoms presented yet.

I understand that additional fees can be frustrating and that not everybody wants to have photos when getting an eye exam, but a comprehensive eye exam is so much more than just a sight test. Aside from being able to see, the overall health of the eye matters. Seeing great doesn't necessarily mean good eye health. And so many things going on in our bodies can have an impact on the health of our eyes. So I think even though there are additional costs involved to have these images taken, it is 100% worth it.

Optometrists aren't trying to take advantage of you. Alberta Health Care has made changes via reduction of funding that has impacted optometry in a large way and does not cover any of the imaging. More than that though, I want to continue providing you with the highest level of care that I would expect for and give to my loved ones.

Dr. Nikki