Frequently asked Questions

Cataracts & Surgical Co-Management

1. What are the early signs of cataracts? Common symptoms include blurry vision, sensitivity to glare (especially at night), fading colors, and frequent prescription changes.

2. Do you perform cataract surgery at Hadley Eye Care? While the practice does not perform the surgery, it provides expert diagnosis and post-operative co-management to ensure recovery is seamless.

3. How do I know when it’s time for cataract surgery? Surgery is typically recommended when cataracts begin to interfere with daily activities like driving, reading, or hobbies.

4. What is cataract co-management? The practice handles pre-operative measurements and all follow-up care locally in Auburn, coordinating directly with the surgeon for the procedure.

5. Can cataracts return after surgery? No, but a "secondary cataract" (clouding of the lens capsule) can occur, which is easily treated with a quick laser procedure.

Retinal Health & Age-Related Conditions

1. What is Macular Degeneration (AMD)? AMD is a condition that affects central vision; OCT imaging is used to monitor for early signs of "dry" or "wet" macular degeneration.

2. What are "floaters" and are they dangerous? Floaters are small specks in your vision. While common, a sudden increase in floaters or flashes of light can signal a retinal tear or detachment.

3. Do you provide retinal imaging for all patients? Optos ultra-widefield imaging is highly recommended for all ages to document retinal health without always requiring dilation.

4. What is an Amsler Grid and why is it used? It is a simple tool used at home to monitor for vision distortions caused by macular degeneration.

5. Can vitamins help prevent Macular Degeneration? Specific formulations, like AREDS2 vitamins, may slow the progression of AMD in certain patients; the practice provides personalized supplement advice.

Chronic Conditions & Specialized Care

1. What is Diabetic Retinopathy? It is a complication of diabetes that damages blood vessels in the retina, potentially leading to blindness if not managed.

2. How does high blood pressure affect the eyes? Hypertension can cause "hypertensive retinopathy," leading to retinal bleeding and vision loss.

3. Do you offer Plaquenil (Hydroxychloroquine) toxicity screenings? Yes, the practice provides the specialized visual field and OCT testing required for patients on this medication.

4. Can you treat an eye infection (Pink Eye)? Yes, the practice provides medical treatment for bacterial, viral, and allergic conjunctivitis.

5. What should I do if I get a foreign object in my eye? Contact the practice immediately for medical removal to prevent corneal scarring or infection.

6. Do you treat corneal abrasions? Yes, medicated drops and bandage contact lenses are used to help the cornea heal quickly and comfortably.

7. What is Blepharitis and how is it treated? Blepharitis is inflammation of the eyelids; the practice offers specialized cleaning protocols and medical treatments to manage it.

8. What is Keratoconus? It is a condition where the cornea thins and bulges into a cone shape; the practice provides diagnosis and specialty lenses and if neccessary referrals.

9. What common eye conditions are treated by optometrists in Alabama?
   At our Auburn practice, we diagnose and manage the most common eye conditions affecting Alabamians, including glaucoma, macular degeneration, cataracts, diabetic retinopathy, and chronic dry eye syndrome.

Technology & Advanced Diagnostics

1. Why is OCT technology better than a standard exam? OCT allows the practice to see beneath the surface of the retina, detecting diseases like glaucoma years before a standard exam could.

2. Does Optos imaging replace the need for dilation? In many cases, it provides a sufficient view of the retina, though Dr. Hadley may still recommend dilation for certain medical cases.

3. How do you test for Color Blindness? The practice uses standardized color plate tests to identify deficiencies in color perception, often for career or school requirements.

4. What is Visual Field Testing used for? It measures peripheral vision and is critical for monitoring glaucoma and certain neurological conditions.

Insurance, Value & Logistics

1. What is the difference between Vision Insurance and Medical Insurance? Vision insurance covers routine exams and eyewear; Medical insurance (like Blue Cross) covers eye injuries, infections, and chronic diseases.

2. Does my medical insurance cover my eye exam? If you have a medical diagnosis like dry eye, glaucoma, or diabetes, medical insurance is often the primary payer for the exam.

3. Are you an in-network provider for VSP or EyeMed? Yes the practice is in network for VSP and many EyeMed plans. The practice works with many major plans; please contact the Auburn office in East Alabama to verify specific coverage.

4. Do you offer flexible spending account (FSA) or HSA options? Yes, prescription eyewear and medical eye exams are eligible expenses for most FSA and HSA plans.

5. Can I get a copy of my prescription after my exam? Yes, a copy of your spectacle prescription is provided at the conclusion of your comprehensive exam.

6. Why are designer frames better than "budget" glasses? Designer frames at the boutique offer superior materials, durability, and better lens optics for clearer vision. 

7. Do you offer warranties on your eyewear? Yes, the practice stands behind its products with frame and lens warranties to protect your investment.

8. What makes Hadley Eye Care different from big-box retailers? The practice offers a "refined and compassionate" 1-on-1 experience with advanced medical technology you won't find in high-volume retail stores. Hadley Eye Care is locally owned and family focused.

9. Do you offer value frame packages? Yes, Hadley Eye Care offers single vision lens and frame combinations starting at $99.