1. Can an optometrist release my contact lens prescription if I had an eye examination for contact lenses but haven’t completed the fitting process?
   No. A contact lens prescription is not complete unless and until a patient has been fitted for the contact lens being prescribed and the fit has been fully evaluated over at least one follow-up visit and determined to be satisfactory.
   
   
2. When can an optometrist release a patient’s contact lens prescription?
   An optometrist shall, free of charge, release a copy of a patient’s contact lens prescription directly to the patient upon completion of the contact lens fitting. An optometrist shall, free of charge, release a copy of the patient’s contact lens prescription directly to a licensed ophthalmologist, optometrist, or ophthalmic dispenser upon either the oral or written request of a patient.
   
   
3. When does a contact lens prescription expire?
   Federal regulations stipulate a contact lens prescription is valid for one year. Once the optometrist has arrived at your final contact lens prescription, your optometrist can indicate an expiration date based upon your eye health status on the written prescription.
   
   
4. Do I need additional testing prior to my optometrist providing me with a contact lens prescription?
   Yes, testing is required, beyond the scope of a routine eye health examination and issuance of an eyeglass prescription, for cosmetic contact lenses.
   
   For new contact lens wearers, the optometrist must evaluate and record the contact lens performance on the eye. The patient must be taught contact lens placement, removal, care and be given a wearing schedule. Typically, the recommended solutions and a contact lens case are provided. At least a one-week follow-up is required before the contact lens prescription is released.
   
   For current contact lens wearers, the optometrist must evaluate and record the contact lens performance, condition and associated vision prior to issuing a new prescription.
   
   Medical eye health problems such as Keratoconus (odd shaped corneas) and Anisometropia (large prescription differences between the eyes) may require many additional visits and special contact lens constructions.
   
   
5. Am I required to pay a fee in addition to the fee for a routine eye health exam and eyeglass prescription for contact lens fitting, refitting or evaluation?
   Almost all providers charge an additional fee for the fitting and evaluation of contact lenses. This may be expressed as a contact lens fit/refitting fee or as a different price for the routine eye examination and the eye exam for the contact lens wearer. Because contact lenses sit on the physical surface of the eye, they are considered a “medical device,” which requires re-evaluation by your doctor yearly in order to renew your prescription.
   
   
6. Does my vision care or medical insurance pay for contact lens fitting?
   In rare instances, cosmetic contact lens fitting may be paid for by your vision care insurance. Since we do not participate with vision plans, you may ask to be given an itemized receipt after your visit, which you can submit to your vision plan for possible reimbursement.