How long does a consultation go for?
An initial behavioural consultation goes for 60 minutes and subsequent review appointments are 30 minutes. Testing takes longer as we test all aspects of eye coordination as well as visual perception.
Do I need a referral?
No, you do not need a referral. A questionnaire will be emailed to you in relation to you/your child. Please fill this out prior to you coming in for you/your child’s appointment.
What ages should I have my child’s eyes checked?
Routine checks are recommended at 3-6 months of age; 3 years old; Prep; Grade 2 and every 2-3 years thereafter or when you suspect any problems.
What does my private health fund cover?
If you have extras cover with your fund, you are entitled to a rebate for optical appliances i.e. prescription glasses, contact lenses, safety glasses, shooting glasses and swimming goggles. Every fund differs with regards to the amount of the rebate and the level of cover. When you purchase your glasses we are able to swipe your private health insurance card through the HICAPS machine to claim electronically and you will be required to pay for the balance.
What are the fees?
Due to budget cuts to Medicare, optometric consultation fees have been reduced back to the fee levels that were claimable in 2008, and have been frozen at this level until 2018. Also bulk billing rebates have been dramatically reduced making it no longer possible for bulk billing to be available for the extensive testing we do within the comprehensive consultations we offer. At Vision and Sensory Integration we wish to maintain the high standard of eye care that you are accustomed to, and as such, there will be a gap for most visits. The Federal government has also extended the time frame between full visit claims from two to three years, which Optometry Australia has commented is not in the best interests of Australians’ eye health, when two yearly visits are usually recommended.
We have installed the Medicare Online system which means that the Medicare Rebate will be paid straight into your bank account using the same process as when you make a visit to your general practitioner.
Consultation costs are as follows:
- Initial behavioural consultation and assessment (including written report – 60 mins)- $160.00 (Medicare rebate between $28.45 – $85.25)
- Initial standard optical consultation (45 mins)- $85.00 (Medicare rebate between $28.45 and $56.80)
- Review appointment/short consultation (30 mins)- $46.00 (Medicare Rebate $28.45)
- Visual field testing (30 mins)- $65.00 (Medicare Rebate $54.20)
Will my child need eye drops for the test?
It is sometimes a requirement to put drops into children’s eyes during an eye test. If a child does not demonstrate good visual acuity, it may be necessary during the first visit or upon a return visit. If there is a need for eye drops, this will be discussed with parents before any action is taken.
