You may have passed a vision screening at school, work, or a routine health check—but does that mean your eyes are truly healthy? At Advantage Eye Care, we’re often asked: “Do I still need an eye exam if I passed a screening?” The short answer is: yes.
Vision screenings can be helpful, but they’re limited. A comprehensive eye exam—like the ones we provide at Advantage Eye Care in Enid, OK—goes much deeper, helping detect early signs of eye disease that screenings miss.
Vision Screening vs Eye Exam: A Clear Comparison
Here’s a clear breakdown of how a vision screening differs from a comprehensive eye exam:
- Purpose:
Vision screening is a quick test to detect basic vision issues.
A comprehensive eye exam is a full evaluation of your vision and overall eye health. - Performed By:
Vision screening is often done by a school nurse, pediatrician, or technician.
A comprehensive eye exam is performed by a licensed optometrist. - Time Required:
Vision screening typically takes 5–10 minutes.
A comprehensive eye exam usually takes 30–60 minutes. - Equipment Used:
Vision screening uses eye charts and basic visual acuity tools.
A comprehensive eye exam uses advanced diagnostic tools, dilation, slit lamp exams, and retinal imaging. - Conditions Detected:
Vision screening may detect nearsightedness or farsightedness.
A comprehensive eye exam can detect glaucoma, cataracts, macular degeneration, diabetic retinopathy, and more. - Prescription Update:
Vision screening does not update prescriptions.
A comprehensive eye exam includes an updated glasses or contact lens prescription. - Treatment Advice:
Vision screening does not provide treatment guidance.
A comprehensive eye exam includes personalized treatment, monitoring, and follow-up care. - Insurance Coverage:
Vision screenings are often not covered.
Comprehensive eye exams are typically covered by vision insurance.
Don’t Risk Missing Early Signs of Disease
A vision screening might say your eyesight is “good enough,” but it won’t catch serious issues developing silently in the background. Conditions like glaucoma, macular degeneration, and diabetic eye disease can progress without noticeable symptoms until vision loss occurs.
At Advantage Eye Care, our comprehensive eye exams do far more than check your vision—they help protect long-term eye health.
We’ve had patients who passed screenings elsewhere, only to discover significant issues during their exam with us. Early diagnosis is crucial, and that’s something a screening cannot provide.
Frequently Asked Questions
- Do I need an eye exam if I passed a vision screening?
Yes. Passing a screening does not mean your eyes are healthy. It only checks for basic vision problems and may overlook more serious conditions. A comprehensive eye exam evaluates both vision and overall eye health. - What is included in an eye exam vs a screening?
An eye exam involves detailed testing, including a review of your eye health history, visual acuity testing, ocular disease screening, and personalized recommendations for treatment or eyewear. A screening usually only checks whether your vision meets a minimum standard. - My child passed a school vision screening—do they still need an eye exam?
Yes. School screenings often miss focusing issues, myopia, and eye alignment problems. A full exam with an Enid optometrist can help identify concerns early.
Why Choose Advantage Eye Care for Your Eye Care in Enid, OK?
Located near Owen K. Garriott Road (Hwy 412) and Cleveland Street, across from Starbucks, Advantage Eye Care provides convenient, patient-focused eye care in Enid, OK. Led by Scott M. Carlson, O.D., our team offers advanced diagnostic technology, attentive service, and same-day appointments when available.
Whether you’re scheduling your annual visit or it’s been a while since your last appointment, don’t rely on a screening alone.
- ✅ Book your eye exam today
- 📞 Or call us at 580-308-3134
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Your Vision Deserves More Than a Pass/Fail Test
Trust Advantage Eye Care in Enid, OK for thorough, professional eye care that protects both your vision and long-term eye health.