Patient Overview
At Columbia Eye Associates, we offer comprehensive vision care for people of all ages. Our services range from routine eye exams to specialized treatments for eye diseases. Whether you need cataract surgery, glaucoma treatment, or just a new pair of glasses, we are here to meet your needs.
Our Vision Care Services Include
Routine Eye Exam
Children's Eye Exam
Diagnosis and Treatment of Eye Diseases
Glaucoma
Diabetes-related vision issues
Cataracts
Dry Eyes
Macular Degeneration
How Often Should You Have an Eye Exam?
Regular eye exams help maintain your vision and detect potential issues early. Here is a general schedule for eye exams:
- Before first grade
- Up to age 19: Every 2 years
- Adults (19–40 years): Every 2 to 3 years
- Adults (41–60 years): Every 2 to 3 years
- Adults (61+ years): Annually
Dilation Information
We may need to dilate your pupils during eye exams using special drops. This allows us to examine the health of your eyes in greater detail. Dilation can cause light sensitivity and difficulty seeing at close range or distance for several hours. We offer free disposable sunglasses or dark inserts for your glasses to help with light sensitivity. We recommend avoiding driving or operating machinery immediately after the exam, as your vision may be temporarily impaired.
Refraction Information
A refraction test is often performed to determine whether you need new glasses or contacts. It helps determine whether blurry vision is due to a refractive error or a medical condition.
If you plan to get new glasses, please provide us with accurate measurements before your exam. Please note that most insurance plans do not cover this part of the examination process. Contact your insurance provider or our office for more information.
Insurance Information
We accept most medical insurance plans, including Medicare, Medicare Advantage, and Medicaid. We also accept some vision plans. If we are unable to take your vision plan, discounts are available.
We verify insurance coverage prior to your appointment or surgery to ensure everything is in order. Please have the following details ready when scheduling:
- Insurance Carrier
- HMO or PPO plan
- Insurance Card (1-800 number for verification)
- Policy Holder’s Name
- Insurance ID & Group Numbers
Scheduling Your Appointment
We strive to make scheduling your appointment as easy as possible. When you call, please have your insurance card, primary care physician's name, and pharmacy information ready. We securely store your personal information according to HIPAA privacy guidelines.
At Your Appointment
When you arrive, our friendly staff will greet you and collect the necessary information, such as your insurance cards and photo ID. We will also take a quick photo for your medical record. Please bring your current eyeglasses or contact lenses and a list of any medications you take.
A comprehensive eye exam, including dilation, may take 60-90 minutes. Additional time may be needed if you are prescribed glasses or require diagnostic tests.
Payment Information
For any portion of the exam not covered by insurance (e.g., copays or deductibles), payment is due at the time of service. We accept MasterCard, Visa, Discover, American Express, checks, and cash.
Full-Service Optical Department
Our Lake City and Live Oak locations have full-service Optical Boutiques with a wide selection of frames and experienced staff to help you find the perfect pair of glasses or order contact lenses.
Our Lake City office has an optical lab that can fill most prescriptions within a few business days. Some specialty lenses may take longer, and our staff will provide an estimated delivery time.
Choose A Nearby Center
With multiple offices across the region, we make it easy for you to select the location that best fits your needs. Whether you’re looking for convenience, proximity to home or work, or a specific service, our centers are strategically located to serve you better.
Each office provides the same high standard of care and a welcoming environment to make sure your visit is as smooth as possible.