Even though more people are able to purchase medical insurance today, most health policies exclude coverage for vision. In past years eye-care was traditionally managed from start to finish by ophthalmologists or optometrists, many of whom still stock a wide range of frames and styles. The convenience and popularity of Internet shopping has dramatically upended that arrangement, and buying online prescription glasses and contact lenses is now big business.
This explosion in consumer choice does not decrease the vital importance of regular eye exams. People with serious vision problems realize how vital regular checkups are in maintaining their eyesight. Optometrists and ophthalmologists are trained to recognize and treat potentially serious problems in addition to correcting common issues such as astigmatism or myopia.
When an optometrist or ophthalmologist writes a prescription, the patient is entitled to a copy. Federal laws enacted over the past forty years guarantee consumers the right to purchase glasses and contacts from any reputable optical supplier, including those having a primary presence on line. Although some customers still prefer traditional methods of ordering and fitting, others have been quick to take advantage.
There have been immediate benefits for the nearly two million consumers who chose to order their lenses via the Internet during the past year. The selection is larger than that available in a brick-and-mortar store, with styles that accommodate nearly every taste, and prices that are usually discounted. The number of vision retailers on line has skyrocketed, making shopping simpler and faster than ever before.
Even though the Internet has brought optical marketing into the modern era, there are still some potentially serious problems to avoid, most having to do with product quality and design. Writing a prescription requires licensing and training, but selling frames and lenses is not as carefully controlled. For glasses to fit comfortably and ensure the sharpest vision, facial measurements must be taken carefully.
Some sites now offer virtual fitting processes designed to produce the same results as an office visit. While the examination is essential for proper correction, it does not always provide customers with measurements detailing facial width, variations in spacing, optical centering and other factors important to a comfortable and safe fit. Some Internet sellers allow customers to return products that fit poorly, but that can be time consuming and annoying.
The biggest caveat for consumers regards inferior materials and unsafe glass, especially in optical wear that is priced far below market values. There are few regulatory controls over manufacturers and sellers of glasses, which may not always meet all optical safety standards. Extras like lens coatings may be of substandard quality, and some features may be omitted altogether, with little consumer recourse.
Although the overall cost of buying on line are definitely lower, it may not be the best alternative for people living with complex visual issues. For those with easily corrected problems, purchases should be carefully considered, and final choices made based on personal measurements as well as stylish trends. Unlike an accessory hanging in the closet, corrective lenses affect every aspect of daily life.
This explosion in consumer choice does not decrease the vital importance of regular eye exams. People with serious vision problems realize how vital regular checkups are in maintaining their eyesight. Optometrists and ophthalmologists are trained to recognize and treat potentially serious problems in addition to correcting common issues such as astigmatism or myopia.
When an optometrist or ophthalmologist writes a prescription, the patient is entitled to a copy. Federal laws enacted over the past forty years guarantee consumers the right to purchase glasses and contacts from any reputable optical supplier, including those having a primary presence on line. Although some customers still prefer traditional methods of ordering and fitting, others have been quick to take advantage.
There have been immediate benefits for the nearly two million consumers who chose to order their lenses via the Internet during the past year. The selection is larger than that available in a brick-and-mortar store, with styles that accommodate nearly every taste, and prices that are usually discounted. The number of vision retailers on line has skyrocketed, making shopping simpler and faster than ever before.
Even though the Internet has brought optical marketing into the modern era, there are still some potentially serious problems to avoid, most having to do with product quality and design. Writing a prescription requires licensing and training, but selling frames and lenses is not as carefully controlled. For glasses to fit comfortably and ensure the sharpest vision, facial measurements must be taken carefully.
Some sites now offer virtual fitting processes designed to produce the same results as an office visit. While the examination is essential for proper correction, it does not always provide customers with measurements detailing facial width, variations in spacing, optical centering and other factors important to a comfortable and safe fit. Some Internet sellers allow customers to return products that fit poorly, but that can be time consuming and annoying.
The biggest caveat for consumers regards inferior materials and unsafe glass, especially in optical wear that is priced far below market values. There are few regulatory controls over manufacturers and sellers of glasses, which may not always meet all optical safety standards. Extras like lens coatings may be of substandard quality, and some features may be omitted altogether, with little consumer recourse.
Although the overall cost of buying on line are definitely lower, it may not be the best alternative for people living with complex visual issues. For those with easily corrected problems, purchases should be carefully considered, and final choices made based on personal measurements as well as stylish trends. Unlike an accessory hanging in the closet, corrective lenses affect every aspect of daily life.
About the Author:
If you are wondering how to get your online prescription glasses, consider using search engines for desired results. Get all the facts by going to http://www.warnercooper.com.
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