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1. How do I schedule an appointment on this web site?
Simply click "schedule an appointment" and follow the directions. All "comprehensive vision exams" are scheduled on the hour and half hour. All other "office visits" and/or "follow-up appointments" are scheduled on the quarter hour.
2. Why should I print and complete my paperwork before my visit?
Printing the forms and completing them before arriving at the office will save you time and help us expedite your visit. Please remember to fill out each form COMPLETELY using BLACK INK.
3. How long does an exam take?
If you choose not to have your eyes dilated, you should plan to be in the office approximately an hour. This allows time for pre-testing and history with the technician, your examination by the Doctor, and time to select eyeglasses. Allow an extra half hour if you plan to have your eyes dilated or get fit with contact lenses. The dilating drops take 30 minutes to take effect.
4. How often should my eyes be examined?
This depends on your age and the condition of your eyes. We recommend a "comprehensive visual analysis" once a year for all of our patients, especially those under 19 years of age and those over 64 years of age. We realize that many insurance companies will only cover an examination every 2 years, so you should check with your insurance company first. Certain conditions such as cataracts, diabetes and glaucoma require "follow-up" evaluations more frequently.
5. Do you exam children?
Yes. We examine patients of all ages. Dr. MacKewiz completed an Internship at the Pediatric Department of the Eye Institute in Philadelphia while in training.
6. At what age should my child be examined?

According to the American Optometric Association, the first exam should be by 6 months of age, and again by age 3. We strongly recommend that all children should be examined by age 3, because by age 4, Amblyopia (lazy eye) can develop.

7. Hablas Espanol?
Si, tenemos una emplejada que trabaja parcialmente.
8. What methods of payment do you accept?
The office accepts MasterCard, VISA, Discover, American Express, Debit Cards, and of course, cash. You can also obtain instant credit by applying for "CareCredit" while at the office.
9. Do you accept personal checks?
No. Unfortunately, we cannot accept your personal check.
10. Is there a charge for missed appointments?
We ask that you provide at least 24 hours notice if you cannot keep your appointment. This allows us to fill the appointment with another patient who has been waiting. "Late cancellations" and "no-shows" will be charged a minimum of $49.00, or the usual and customary fee, at our discretion. This will not be billed to insurance or any other third party. For more information, please refer to our "Financial Policy." Please help us keep our fees competitive by keeping your appointment.
11. Do I have to have my eyes dilated?
Although we recommend dilation for all new patients having a "comprehensive vision analysis," the choice whether or not to have your eyes dilated is up to you. If you choose not to, we simply ask that you initial your chart indicating your preference.
12. Why do I need a driver?
We recommend that you bring a driver if you are going to have your eyes dilated because the dilating drops will make your eyes sensitive to light and your vision blurry for approximately 4-6 hours.
13. Can I wear contact lenses if my eyes are dilated?
No. The eye drops used for glaucoma testing and dilation will discolor your contacts, and residual medication in the contact lens may re-dilate your eyes the next time you wear them.
14. Do I need a separate prescription for contact lenses?
Yes. A prescription for glasses and contact lenses is not the same. Before you can get fit with contact lenses, you must have a "comprehensive visual analysis" (eye examination). This will determine your prescription for glasses and serves as the starting point for determining your contact lens prescription.
15. Can I purchase contact lenses from your office if I was fit elsewhere?
Yes, if you have a current and complete contact lens prescription. A contact lens prescription must include all the required parameters (manufacturer, power, base curve, diameter), number of refills, original date fit with expiration date, and doctor's signature.
16. Why do contact lenses cost less if I buy them on your web site?
Contact lenses cost less when you purchase them on our secure web site because we save staff time. We don't have to order the lenses, inventory the lenses, collect payment from you in the office, or notify you when they arrive.
17. How long is my prescription good for?
A prescription for glasses expires in 2 years, although we recommend renewing it every year. A prescription for contact lenses expires annually and must be renewed before new contacts can be purchased.
18. Can I snack while at the office?
No. In consideration of other patients, the office has a strict policy against any type of food or drink being consumed in the office. Please do not ask for exceptions to this policy.
19. Can I use my cell phone at the office?
In consideration of other patients and staff, we ask that you limit cell phone use to the waiting/reception area located at the front of the office. Please turn cell phones off in the exam room and patient care areas.
20. How old is the practice?
Bear Eye Center was established in 1991, and was the first eye care practice in Bear. The practice moved in 1999 from its humble beginnings in the Governor's Square Shopping Center to the new state-of-the-art building it now occupies.
21. How old is Dr. MacKewiz?
Forty something?!?