Everything you need to know before your visit. We want to make your time at our office as smooth and comfortable as possible.
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To make your visit as smooth as possible, please bring the following: a valid photo ID, all insurance cards (medical and vision), a complete list of your current medications (including eye drops), any referral paperwork from your eye doctor, previous eye records or imaging (OCT scans, fluorescein angiography), and sunglasses for after your appointment, as your eyes will likely be dilated.
Elman Retina Group accepts most major medical insurance plans, including Medicare, Medicaid, BlueCross BlueShield, Aetna, Cigna, United Healthcare, and many others. Payment is expected at the time of service for any copays, coinsurance, or deductibles. We accept cash, check, and all major credit cards. If you have questions about your coverage, please call our billing department at 410-686-3000 before your appointment.
Your first visit will typically last 1 to 2 hours. After checking in, our technicians will perform a series of diagnostic tests, which may include visual acuity testing, eye pressure measurement, OCT imaging, and fundus photography. Your pupils will be dilated so the doctor can examine your retina thoroughly. After the exam, your retina specialist will review the findings with you, explain your diagnosis in plain language, and discuss treatment options. We encourage you to bring a family member and to write down any questions you'd like to ask.
Please arrive 15 minutes early to complete any remaining paperwork. Eat normally before your appointment. Continue taking all medications unless your doctor has told you otherwise. Because your eyes will be dilated, arrange for someone to drive you home — especially if this is your first visit. Wear comfortable clothing, and leave valuable jewelry at home. If you wear contact lenses, you may want to bring your glasses as well, since contacts may need to be removed for certain tests.