What to expect
A Pediatric Ophthalmologist is a subspecialist and surgeon who can diagnose and treat childhood eye diseases as early as the first days of life. Pediatric Ophthalmologists are also trained to diagnose and treat adult strabismus (“lazy eye”) at any age.
What to expect at your office visit
At your initial visit, please:
Be certain that records from previous eye care providers have been sent to our office and that you know the name and telephone number of that doctor, and
Bring any glasses and eyedrops that have been prescribed
After you are initially seen by the doctor, dilating drops will be used to allow for an exam of the inside of the eye and a refraction; these drops take 35-40 minutes to work, so expect to spend about 1.5 hours at the office for a complete exam. The drops typically wear off after a few hours but can last up to 24-48 hours. This “complete” exam is usually performed once a year to keep up with a child’s growing eyes.
What to Expect from your doctor
“As the only Pediatric Ophthalmologist in Western Massachusetts, it takes a great deal of work by my team to care for an enormous number of patients in a timely fashion. To do this, please notice that I personally bring you back from the waiting area, do all the measurements, do all the charting, and place the eyedrops for the complete eye exam; these are tasks that are typically assigned to technicians. I’ve found this to be the fastest and most effective way to see patients without missing important details. Unfortunately, it also means I will sometimes seem abrupt or hurried, but I am listening very carefully for clues and carefully watching your child’s eyes. When the exam is finished, I will always ask if you have any questions and I will always take the time to be sure your questions are answered. I’m sorry I don’t have more time to spend with you, but you can be absolutely certain you will always get world class care from us, and we look forward to caring for you” Dr Abrams