Writing or Filling of Prescriptions
Most patients seek vision care because they are concerned about their ability to see clearly. Complete optometric care includes supplying appropriate ophthalmic materials to the patient. The patient is best served if the examining services and the materials supplied are part of a single service and not separated. Patients may wish to have their examination at the Clinic but obtain their eyewear materials elsewhere or, conversely, be examined elsewhere and obtain their eyewear materials at the clinic.
A federal regulation (see the section on Federal Trade Commission) requires optometrists to provide each patient with a copy of their prescription for spectacles. Prescriptions will include all information necessary for duplication or initial fabrication of spectacles:
- Patient name
- Lens formula (prescription)
- Type of lens
- P.D. (monocular and/or binocular)
- Tint
- Frame style
- Size
- Signature and registration number of licensed O.D.
- Expiration Date of prescription
Prescriptions for contact lenses shall include:
- Patient name
- Brand of Lenses
- Power and cylinder parameters
- Base Curve
- Diameter
- Signature and registration number of licensed O.D.
- Expiration Date of prescription
Filling outside prescriptions enhances the educational process for optometry students.
- Outside prescription must be current and correct.
- Liability for correctness is between patient and doctor rendering prescription.
- Redos, with exception of VSP patients, are the financial responsibility of patient or outside doctor.