Everything You Need to Know About Pediatric Optometrists: Expert Eye Care for Your Child’s Vision
A pediatric optometrist Calgary is an eye care professional who is well equipped to handle children’s eye needs from infancy to their teenage age. They are able to identify, assess, and treat disorders affecting the vision and ocular health of patients, especially the young ones.
Are they trained in their profession, and if so, what kind of certification do they possess?
Specializing in children requires additional training in the form of a residency program in which pediatric optometrists also complete their Doctor of Optometry degree after four years of college. They also undertake one more residency, which specializes in pediatrics and vision therapy. Board certification in this specialty requires further examination and practice improvement.
When is the right time for children to visit an eye care professional for an eye checkup?
According to the American Optometric Association, the first eye check should be done at six months, and a comprehensive eye check should be done at three years of age, then an annual check from 5 years of age. This is why vision screening should be done at least once per annum so that if any problem is noticed, it has to be treated before it gets to this stage.
In the case of pediatric optometrists, what are some of the conditions that they are able to diagnose and treat?
They also identify and treat vision disorders such as myopia, hyperopia, astigmatism, amblyopia, strabismus, and other visual acuity and focus disorders. This is done in cases where they recommend the use of corrective apparatus such as glasses or contact lenses. They also treat conditions that affect learning ability through vision, commonly referred to as Learning Related Vision Problems.
Does this provider do eye surgery?
No, pediatric optometrists do not do eye surgeries as they are not allowed to operate, only to prescribe and examine eyes. They might collaborate with ophthalmologists (medical doctors who focus on the eye area) to develop an operating plan in case of surgical intervention.
They do prescribe glasses and contacts for children. However, one needs to be very careful when doing so.
Specialized pediatric optometrists are allowed to examine and diagnose, dispense, and even recommend the correct vision accessories, such as spectacles or contact lenses. They also do follow up to ensure that the lenses will help correct vision adequately.
How can I be sure I have a pediatric optometrist who is competent for my child?
To find a pediatric vision specialist, one can check the American Optometric Association website since it has a doctor locator. Ensuring they have completed postgraduate training in specialized residency in pediatric eye care is crucial. Recommendations from the child’s pediatrician, as well as family and friends, are also very receptive.
Is vision insurance valid when children get an eye checkup?
A majority of vision insurance options include the general vision check on children, glasses, and contact lenses. However, the coverage differs with specific plan details, and therefore, it is recommended that you consult your unique provider. Children also benefit from vision through Medicaid, with the majority of the states offering vision to children.
