Do they have to give you your prescription?

Discussion in 'Optometry Archives' started by NJ_Annie, Oct 7, 2009.

  1. NJ_Annie

    NJ_Annie Guest

    If you go to an eye doctor for an exam, are they required by law to
    give you your prescription? And if this is not a requirement, do most
    places let you know what your prescription is to at least give you the
    choice of where to get your glasses? How do most places handle this
    sort of thing?

    NJA
     
    NJ_Annie, Oct 7, 2009
    #1
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  2. NJ_Annie

    Otis Guest

    Dear NJA,


    In the USA the OD is required to give you a copy of your prescription.

    Enjoy,
     
    Otis, Oct 7, 2009
    #2
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  3. AFAIK in the US this is handled by state law. Most [all?]
    states require giving patients glasses prescriptions, but not
    all require giving contact lens prescriptions. Presumably to
    encourage/bundle follow-up. In the US, I do not believe
    the doc is ever _forbidden_ from giving out a prescription,
    but they might be in other countries.

    -- Robert
     
    Robert Redelmeier, Oct 7, 2009
    #3
  4. NJ_Annie

    Mark A Guest

    That is not exactly correct. The FTC (Federal Trade Commission) has issued a
    regulation applying to all states that the Rx must be given to the patient.
    The rules for contacts are a little different, since you don't get the Rx
    until the fitting is complete (but you still get it).

    If they don't give you the Rx, just ask for it. If they hesitate, then
    remind them of the FTC regulation (they know about it) and review your Rx
    carefully to make sure you can read all they numbers and that there are no
    "typos" (or sloppy handwriting) which may mysteriously occur when they are
    forced to hand it over.
    http://www.ftc.gov/bcp/edu/pubs/consumer/alerts/alt143.shtm
     
    Mark A, Oct 7, 2009
    #4
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