Walmart is a big name that focuses on beauty, automotive, photography, banking, and other such services. It is thus not a surprise that it now focuses on quality eye care. Not only does it offer eyeglasses and contact lenses, but it also enables people to get eye exams at their Vision Centers.

And all this takes place under the watch of licensed eye doctors, ensuring that you get excellent services.

If you are thinking of getting an eye exam done here, you are not alone. Millions of people head to these vision centers annually in search of one service or the other. Walmart ranks as one of the leading optical goods providers in the United States. That is how big its reach is.

But that alone is not enough to convince you to get the test. After all, the large numbers may not necessarily be indicative of excellent services. In this guide, we will dissect the products offered at these vision centers before delving into some FAQs. At the end of the article, you should be in a position to make a knowledgeable decision on these centers.

Fun Fact

Getting an eye exam at Walmart for non-complex eye conditions is similar to the same from a private eye doctor.

Convenience and a wide range of products

One thing you will notice is that the vision centers are easily accessible. When you compare these to visiting your eye doctor, you may find that the centers are more convenient. This convenience drives many people to the centers.

However, that is not all that drives traffic to Walmart. They also have a broad range of products which you may not find in other places. From lenses to frames, you have a lot of variety from which you can choose. If you have dealt with limited availability in the past, you will be happy to know that this is not the case. And with this extensive range, you get to enjoy fair market prices.

Also, you will love that you can walk in without making an appointment. That allows you to visit the centers at your convenience as you shop for glasses and lenses. The downside to this is that making special orders can be a bit difficult. That is not to say that it is impossible.

You should note that the centers focus on offering reasonable items to their customers. As such, if you are in the market for high quality at a hefty price, they may not be the best option in your case.

Licensed eye doctors at Walmart Vision Centers

If you want an eye exam done by a licensed eye doctor, the vision centers can meet this need. Walmart hires both independent as well as employed eye doctors who can take you through thorough eye exams.

All doctors working in the Walmart eye centers are there on a hired or contract basis and have the necessary qualifications and certifications. You can either come across an optometrist or ophthalmologist when seeking medical attention.

That means that you do not have to make an appointment with your eye doctor when you feel that something is amiss. However, there is a downside to using the centers.

For one, if you have a long medical history with specific needs, you should stick to your doctor. That way, you can receive care based on history. It also feels better to work with someone whose skills you know.

Secondly, there is a high turnover rate at these centers. That means that establishing a relationship with one doctor can be hard. The next time you go in, they might not be there. If you prefer forging a relationship with your doctor, this setting might not work for you.

If you do not have particular needs or a need for a doctor-patient relationship, then the Walmart centers will work. You will receive quality care at affordable costs. Also, it will be at your convenience.

Range in services

While the centers offer a range of products, the same does not hold when it comes to their services. The doctors mainly deal with routine exams. If your case is a bit more specialized, you should seek help from private practice. But where the situation calls for minor treatment procedures, doctors at the centers can help.

Insurance

Insurance is an issue of concern for patients visiting the walmart eye centers. While some policies provide cover for the rendered services, not all are acceptable. Also, some doctors insist on receiving their payment by cash, which is a disadvantage to insurance holders.

Walmart Vision Center prices

Is there a difference between pricing at Walmart and that at private practices? Well, there is this notion that Walmart Vision Centers offer their services at lower costs compared to private practices. However, the difference is not that much.

You should compare these with what your doctor offers. You may find that you are not saving as much as you would think. However, if you want products priced on the lower end, the vision centers will work. They offer a range of products, and you can thus find something that fits into your budget.

Thus far, you have seen some pros and cons of using Walmart Vision Centers. You are likely to have some unanswered questions at this point. Let’s cover the FAQs and see if this helps you make an informed decision:

Walmart Vision Center FAQ

Q: Given that the centers charge low fees, will I receive a complete eye exam?

A: At the Walmart vision centers, doctors work in evaluating a patient’s vision needs as they diagnose any eye conditions. They do so using modern instruments. The fees have nothing to do with the quality of the exams. Doctors can reduce their fees, given that they have minimal overheads and lots of clients.

Q: How much will getting an eye exam at Walmart cost me?

A: Usually, you should part with $79 for a complete eye exam that tests your health and vision. A basic contact lens exam will cost about $129. Variations of the same will call for additional costs. An example would be where you need bifocal correction.

Q: Can I get a written prescription after my Walmart eye exam?

A: Yes, the doctor will provide you with a written prescription, as well as a summary of the exam. You can use the prescription anywhere in the United States.

Q: How often should I get my eyes checked?

A: You should get your eyes checked every year. That way, the eye doctor can note any changes in the health and vision of your eyes. In so doing, it is possible to deal with vision-threatening eye changes from the onset.

Q: Do the Walmart vision centers accept insurance?

A: Most insurance policies work for the vision centers. However, some are not acceptable. It is thus best that you furnish the centers with this information before the exam. That way, you can avoid any surprises.

Q: Are Walmart contact lens exams more expensive?

A: Yes. It owes to the measurement of the eye’s curvature to ensure that patients get lenses that fit them as needed.

Q: Why do some contact lenses cost more than others?

A: It comes down to the technology behind the lenses. If they have up-to-date features, they will cost more than those which came into the market a while back.

Q: Can I get high-quality glasses at Walmart?

A: Yes, you can even get custom-made glasses if you like. They cost less, owing to the centers’ buying power. That is not an indication of their quality.

Conclusion

Getting your eye exam done at Walmart can offer you great convenience. What’s your take on this?

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