How to Get Started Including Fees and Payments
The first step to scheduling an appointment at The Sight Center of Northwest Ohio is to talk with your eye care professional regarding making a referral. Most referrals are made by ophthalmologists and optometrists. However, in some cases, The Sight Center receives referrals from health and human service organizations as well as other health professionals in private practice throughout the region.
Fees vary per service. Third party payments are accepted from the Ohio Rehabilitation Services Commission, Medicare, Medicaid (secondary), selected HMOs and private insurance plans. When necessary, affordable access to these vital services is offered through a sliding fee schedule as well as foundation and grant support monies.
Feel free to call our Vision Services Representative at 419-720-EYES (3937) if you have questions regarding the referral process.
What to Expect from The Sight Center of Northwest Ohio
Your physician has referred you to The Sight Center of Northwest Ohio for further evaluation and assistance with your vision care. Please be assured that we will not duplicate the eye exam that your physician has already completed, rather we will complete a comprehensive low vision evaluation designed to identify ways to maximize your existing vision and allow for your continued independence.
Your evaluation will be completed during a 2 to 2 ˝ hour visit to The Sight Center. Prior to leaving The Sight Center, a second visit will be scheduled to evaluate your success as well as to finalize all recommendations.
Your primary visit…
is focused on identifying your individual needs, developing a services program that will work for you, and giving you the tools necessary to maintain your independence. At this time you will meet with:
A Doctor who specializes in low vision care. The doctor will determine what prescription you will need for magnifiers as well as what lighting, contrast and other techniques will maximize your existing vision. Please note that we do not provide primary eye exams and your eyes will not be dilated. You will continue to see your primary eye care professional for follow-up regarding your eye condition.
An Occupational Therapist who will identify daily living activities that may be difficult for you now and causing some concern about your future. Activities can include: reading, setting stove dials, managing money, signing checks and more.
A Low Vision Trainer who will teach you how to properly use the low vision devices prescribed for you by the doctor. The low vision trainer will work with you one-on-one until you feel confident to incorporate these devices into your daily living plan.
A Case Manager who will work with you to develop a care plan specific to your needs. The case manager will discuss all service options available such as rehabilitation teaching, computer support, mobility training, support groups and more. Additionally, the case manager will discuss fees and payment opportunities, which may include insurance, private pay, grant monies, state monies and more. The case manager’s primary goal is to assist you in acquiring all the services that you need to maintain your independence. The case manager will be your Sight Center “partner” from start to finish.
The follow-up visit…
is focused on assessing your progress since the first visit and finalizing recommendations. Generally, at this time, you will meet with the low vision trainer or another service provider, depending on your individual needs. This visit lasts about 1 hour and determines next steps to ensure continued independence in your areas of interest.
The Sight Center of Northwest Ohio looks forward to assisting you with your vision needs. Our scheduler or intake person will be calling you to confirm your appointment time and respond to any questions you may have. However, please feel free to call us with questions at 419-720-EYES (3937).
