Frequently Asked Questions
At Joseph Gowen, O.D. & Associates, our goal is to provide top eye health care in a safe and comfortable environment. Our FAQ is designed to answer any potential concerns and questions you might have. For additional information, don’t hesitate to contact us.
Blank
Do I need an appointment?
Appointments are always appreciated, but walk-ins are welcome. We can often offer same-day walk-in spots to accommodate our out-of-town patients. Call us at 719-296-6597.
I have astigmatism. Can I wear contact lenses?
Yes, there are lots of great new lens designs and materials that work well for correcting astigmatism clearly and comfortably. Dr. Gowen will work with you to find the perfect fit for your eyes.
I need bifocals. Can I still wear contacts?
Yes. Just because you can’t read up close doesn’t mean you need to reach for the reading glasses. Dr. Gowen’s patients have had a lot of success with soft, multifocal contact lenses.
I have diabetes. Do I have to see an MD?
No—optometrists can manage your eyecare even if you are diabetic. We’ll refer you to an MD if we see anything that requires specialized care.
I have diabetes. How often should I get an eye exam?
You should get a dilated eye exam at least once a year. If you have any signs of diabetic eye disease, you may need to be seen more often.
When do my kids need eye exams?
The American Optometric Association recommends eye exams at 1 year, 3 years, and before your child starts kindergarten. After that, your child should be seen at least once every two years, or more often if your doctor recommends it. While in-school vision screenings are nice, they don’t catch all vision problems.
Do you accept Medicare or Medicaid?
Yes, we accept both Medicaid and Medicare. Medicaid covers the cost of an eye exam and glasses for patients under 21. If you are over the age of 21, there is a $2 co-pay for the exam.
How much is an eye exam?
Your insurance plan may cover all or a portion of the cost of your eye exam. Exams without insurance coverage are very affordable—they start at $69 for glasses and $119 for contact lenses.
When can a child start wearing contact lenses?
There’s no lower age limit for contact lenses. When trying to decide if your child is ready for contacts, consider how responsible they are and how well they take care of personal items. Dr. Gowen finds best success between the ages 11-14, when adolescents develop more responsibility and have the motor control to place the lens on the eye. With younger children, parents will need to take a larger role in putting lenses in and for their care and cleaning. Dr. Gowen recommends daily disposable lenses for younger wearers.
Can I get my glasses the same day as my exam?
The Eyemart optical lab is located onsite. Eyemart can make over 90% of the glasses they offer in the same day, including sunglasses, no-line bifocals, and high power lenses. Oftentimes, you can walk out the door with your new glasses in less than an hour.
How much are eye exams without insurance?
Exams without insurance coverage are very affordable—they start at $69 for glasses and $119 for contact lenses.