Questions and answers
Including how our practice works inside the Walmart Vision Center.
The practice and Walmart
Are you employed by Walmart?
No. Dr. Terry is an independent doctor of optometry who chose to locate his practice at Walmart, which is his landlord. He makes no income from selling glasses or contacts, only from providing comprehensive exams and treating eye disease.
How can your fees be so much lower than other eye doctors? Will I get a quality exam?
We provide a thorough exam with the most advanced diagnostic instruments, to evaluate your vision and uncover any eye conditions that could go undetected without regular monitoring. Dr. Terry earned his doctor's degree after the same four years of training all optometrists receive and was licensed by the state after extensive testing.
Our fees are lower because our overhead is lower here, and the convenient location keeps us busy seeing patients all day.
Does Walmart make good quality glasses? Will they last?
Walmart custom-makes your glasses in its own optical labs, using top quality lens and frame materials. Its buying power and efficiency keep the price low. You are also free to buy your eyewear anywhere you choose.
Exams and prescriptions
Will I get a written prescription? Will it be accepted anywhere?
Yes. We give you a written prescription and a summary of your exam as you leave. The prescription is valid anywhere in the U.S.
I had an exam a little over a year ago and my vision seems fine. Why do I need another?
We think it is important that all our patients have an annual eye exam. Your vision can change over 12 months, and a regular check-up lets us uncover sight-threatening conditions that can develop without you noticing.
Will you accept my insurance plan?
We accept most vision plans for whatever portion of the exam cost the plan covers. Tell us your insurance company so we can confirm your coverage. Plans we accept
Contact lenses
Why does it cost more for a contact lens exam?
We do additional testing with contact lens patients to measure the curve of the eye, so we prescribe the lens that gives the best fit and comfort. We also check again after you have worn the lenses for a while to make sure there are no complications.
Aren't all contact lenses the same? Shouldn't I just buy the cheapest ones?
They are not all the same. Lens companies keep introducing better materials that let much more oxygen through, which makes them healthier to wear and comfortable for 14 hours or more a day. We recommend these newer materials to most patients, even though they cost a little more, because we think they are better for your eyes in the long run.
Will my contact lens prescription let me buy any brand of lens I want?
Your prescription is for the specific brand of lens that the exam, and Dr. Terry's experience, show is best for your vision and eye health.
Is it safe to wear a contact lens with a small tear in it?
No. A torn lens can damage the delicate outer tissue of your eye and lead to a serious infection. If you tear a lens and have no replacement, come into the office right away and we will provide a lens at no charge to wear until your new supply arrives.
Visiting
Where are you?
Inside the Walmart Vision Center at 929 E State St, Athens, OH 45701. Map and hours
When does the doctor see patients?
Monday to Friday, 9 AM to 4 PM. The Vision Center itself keeps longer hours, including weekends.
What should I bring?
Your insurance cards, your current glasses or contact lenses, and a list of the medications or supplements you take. Your pupils will probably be dilated, so plan for that.
What if I have an eye emergency?
For sudden loss of vision, chemicals in the eye or a serious injury, call 911 or go to the nearest emergency room now. For loss of vision, double vision, swelling, infection or any other eye emergency, call us right away at (740) 594-3718 for guidance. Eye emergencies
Still have a question?
Ask our assistant. If it is something only the office can answer, it will take your details and the team will call you back.