How Many Eye Doctors is Enough?
Nearly five years ago, as my dry macular degeneration progressed to the intermediate stage, I made the decision to switch to a Retina Specialist (from my Ophthalmologist) and now see him every 6 months. I made that decision following cataract surgery & follow-up exams when my Ophthalmologist commented that he couldn’t help me see any better with corrective lens and there’s nothing more he could do for my AMD. For awhile, I went both to him AND my Retina Specialist but my practical mind questioned what’s the point when my decreased vision is due to AMD & can’t be helped by changing my prescription. Now, I go only to my RS. But I’ve read that many still go to an optometrist or ophthalmologist. I’m curious and would like to hear your reasoning. What has been your experience with eye doctors and if you changed, why? Linda Hoopes, Advocate & Team Member
I was diagnosed with dry AMD by a young optometrist during my annual eye exam. I learned later my ophthalmologist had noted it in my chart after cataract surgery but neglected to inform me. I chose to see a retinal specialist for AMD but I continue to see my optometrist yearly. He provides my dry eye care and new glasses. Sharon Moore Patient Leader That makes perfect sense, Sharon - Thanks for your feedback. How sad that you weren’t informed after your cataract surgery. That’s when I found out I had AMD. I’m glad you chose to see a RS. It sound like your optometrist is still providing a valuable service for you that the RS may not provide (dry eye & new glasses). Linda Hoopes, Advocate & Team Member
Thanks for the feedback, Sharon. Makes perfect sense why you have two doctors at once. Your optometrist monitors your dry eye and corrective lenses and your RS focuses on AMD. Linda Hoopes, Advocate & Team Member
