What is a refraction?
A refraction is when your eye M.D. tests your vision for distance and reading with the best possible lenses, to determine your correction for distance and near, and to determine what is your best corrected vision. This is obviously an integral part of every eye exam. Our fee is $45 for refraction. Some insurance companies cover it; some cover it in part; other insurance companies do not cover it at all. Insurance companies set our rates, and determine how we “code” for your visit, and they have designated it as a separate part of the visit.
A refraction is a process whereby we determine your specific glasses prescription, i.e., whether you are near-sighted, farsighted, and/or have astigmatism. Typically, a device called a phoropter is used for this determination. (It is important to note that your insurance typically does not cover the cost of a refraction, although it is usually a minimal fee).