What to Expect

How Our Exam is Different

Our examination goes beyond what is provided in a typical eye exam. The testing performed can depend on the reason for the visit. Here is an example of the type of testing typically done for different types of vision problems.
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All of our examinations include:

• Assessment of eye health and refraction (need for glasses due to nearsightedness, farsightedness, and astigmatism.)

• Eye movement testing based on age may include the Developmental Eye Movement test (DEM), NUSCCO Eye Movement Test, and/or Computerized Eye Movement Recordings.

• Binocular Vision Testing (eye teaming) includes an assessment of convergence and divergence abilities at distance and near.

• Testing of the eye focusing system (accommodation).

• Determination if specialized lenses and/or prisms for visual function would be of benefit.

• Determination if Optometric Vision Therapy is indicated.
  
  
  

Depending on the patient's symptoms and/or findings the examination may include:

• For learning concerns, testing of developmental visual perceptual skills such as laterality/directionality, letter reversals, visual discrimination, visual memory, and/or visual-motor integration.

• A sensorimotor exam which evaluates the alignment of the eyes in multiple gazes distance and near, fusional ability, and any level of of suppression.

• Determination of whether specialized glasses, prisms, or special occlusion would be beneficial for improving visual function or reducing symptoms.

• Testing to determine if specialized tints or Avulux lenses would be appropriate.

• Balance and/or vestibular testing.

• Visual field and/or a functional visual field evaluation

• Quantitative analysis of pupil function and/or Heart Rate Variability (HRV) to assess autonomic nervous system functioning.

What to expect

Typically, our new patient functional vision evaluations are about 90 minutes long. Patients who have a brain injury, concussion, dizziness, or other neurological symptoms typically require additional time and testing. It is recommended that the new patient evaluation be split into two 90-minute visits in those cases. Before or after seeing Dr. Frazer, our staff will typically conduct a few tests based on the type of exam and the age or abilities of the patient. These tests usually take between 15 to 30 minutes to complete. If you are unable to complete the electronic history form before your visit, please arrive 10 to 15 minutes earlier than your scheduled appointment time to allow adequate time with the doctor. Please let us know if you require assistance filling out the history forms. The majority of your new patient evaluation will be with Dr. Frazer. After asking you about your history and performing a thorough functional vision exam, she will explain your diagnoses, how they relate to your symptoms or concerns, and her recommendations for treatment, including if vision therapy would be recommended.

Insurance

While some insurances cover vision therapy, most insurances (including BCBS, UHC, and similar PPOs) have put unreasonable limits on reimbursement, provide limited to no coverage for vision therapy, or provide very low reimbursement rates for services. To provide the best quality care while keeping out-of-pocket costs lower, payment is expected at the time of service unless other arrangements have been made. We can give you an itemized receipt if would like to try to self-submit to insurance. With your permission, we can provide you or your insurance company with any information requested to process the self-submitted claims.

• Group Health Cooperative: We are a Preferred Provider for GHC. If you have GHC insurance, please contact us as a preauthorization letter is required from a GHC employed eye doctor. Please present your GHC card at the beginning of your appointment.
• Medicare: Beginning on 01/01/2025, we have opted out of Medicare, meaning that Medicare and Medicare Advantage subscribers must enter into a private contract. Regular rates and fees will apply. We do offer a 25% time-of-service discount.
• Medicaid/Badgercare: We are not Medicaid/Badgercare providers.
• Workers Compensation: Please have your claims adjuster or case manager contact us if you are unable to pay at the time of service and require arrangements for payment to be made due to a work-related accident.
• Motor Vehicle Accidents: We generally do not accept Auto Insurance Claims as payment. We can assist you with reimbursement but you will be required to pay at the time of service and be reimbursed unless special arrangements are made.

Cost

The cost of the new patient evaluation can vary depending on the type and complexity of testing required. The cost of new patient evaluations start at $333 but typically run $388 for the initial new patient evaluations. Many patients with vision problems related to a concussion, brain injury, and/or have complaints of dizziness, require more than one visit before a treatment plan can be determined. These new patient evaluations typically cost $628, which includes both appointments. The cost of a vision therapy treatment program varies depending on the number of sessions recommended. Our vision therapy sessions are typically $162 for a 45-minute session. The above prices reflect a 25% Time of Service Discount.