Scheduling an eye exam is one of the most important steps you can take to protect your vision and overall eye health. At Cincinnati Vision Group, we want every patient to feel informed, comfortable, and confident heading into their exam - especially as the end of the year approaches and vision benefits may be expiring.

What to Bring to Your Eye Exam

Coming prepared helps your eye doctor get a complete picture of your vision and eye health.

Be sure to bring:

•           Your current glasses and/or contact lenses

•           A list of medications you’re currently taking (including over-the-counter medications)

•           Your vision insurance information or benefits details

•           A valid photo ID

•           Any recent eye exam records, if you’re a new patient

•           Sunglasses, especially if your eyes will be dilated

If you wear contact lenses, it’s helpful to know the brand, prescription, and how often you replace them. This information allows your doctor to evaluate whether your current lenses are still the best option for your eyes and lifestyle.

What to Expect During Your Eye Exam

A comprehensive eye exam goes beyond checking how clearly you see. It’s a full evaluation of your vision and eye health.

Your exam may include:

•           A vision test to assess clarity at different distances

•           Prescription checks for glasses or contact lenses

•           Eye health evaluations to screen for conditions like glaucoma, macular degeneration, and diabetic eye disease

•           Eye muscle and alignment testing

•           Pupil dilation to allow a closer look at the retina and optic nerve

Your eye doctor will also ask questions about your daily visual demands, screen time, symptoms like headaches or eye strain, and any changes in your vision. This helps tailor
recommendations specifically to your needs.

How to Get the Most Out of Your Appointment

Your eye exam is a great opportunity to ask questions and address concerns you may have been putting off.

To maximize your visit:

•           Share any vision changes or discomfort you’ve noticed

•           Mention headaches, dry eyes, blurred vision, or eye fatigue

•           Ask about blue light protection, specialty lenses, or contact lens options

•           Discuss lifestyle factors such as work, hobbies, or sports that impact your vision

Being open about your visual challenges allows your eye doctor to provide personalized solutions that improve both comfort and clarity.

Use Your Vision Benefits Before the End of the Year

Many vision insurance plans reset at the end of the year. If you haven’t used your benefits yet, now is the time. Unused benefits often do not roll over, meaning you could miss out on coverage for exams, glasses, contact lenses, or lens upgrades you’ve already paid for through your plan.

Scheduling your eye exam before year-end allows you to:

•           Use your remaining vision benefits

•           Update your prescription if needed

•           Replace worn or outdated eyewear

•           Start the new year with clear, comfortable vision

Appointments tend to fill quickly toward the end of the year, so planning ahead is key.

Schedule Your Eye Exam Before Your Vision Benefits Reset

Preparing for your eye exam helps ensure a smooth, informative visit and better long-term eye health. By bringing the right information, knowing what to expect, and asking the right questions, you can make the most of your appointment. With the end of the year approaching, it’s also the perfect time to take advantage of your vision benefits before they expire.

If you want to use your vision benefits before the end of the year, the team at Cincinnati Vision Group is here to help. Contact our office to schedule your comprehensive eye exam and take the next step toward clearer, healthier vision. Visit any of our offices in Cincinnati, Liberty Township, Dayton, or West Chester, Ohio. Call (513) 793-5970, (513) 712-5065, (513) 753-4981, (937) 435-4293, or (937) 579-0393 to book an appointment today.