Services

Our professional eye doctors will perform an extensive eye examination which includes vision testing, and a thorough assessment of your eye health and coordination.

Vision testing of your visual status with your present glasses, your contact lenses or simply your own eyes is the first important step in your examination. Then using advanced equipment, we will do a series of lens tests (called a refraction) to determine if you need glasses or contact lenses to improve your vision. By helping you see your best, in many cases we can enhance your academic,occupational or recreational performance.

All complete examinations include an eye health assessment with various instruments including an ophthalmoscope and biomicroscope. These instruments allow the doctor to examine the internal structures of the eye, including the optic nerve, retinal blood vessels and the retina in general. In addition to checking for cataracts and glaucoma, many systemic diseases such as high blood pressure and diabetes have signs that can be detected by a thorough examination of the eyes.

We also perform a painless procedure called tonometry to measure the pressure inside your eye or intraocular pressure (IOP). This common test is important in the detection of glaucoma.

The most important thing you can do to preserve your eyesight is to visit your eye doctor for regular checkups. Like the rest of your body your eyes will change gradually as you age. However, unlike the rest of your body, the eyes rarely hurt if something is wrong. We’ll advise you when it’s time to be re-examined. So, don’t rely on broken glasses or lost contact lenses to remind you of your next appointment. Follow the advice of experts, have your eyes examined on a regular basis.

The minimum frequency of examination for those at low risk is as follows:

• Preschool (birth to 5 years): At age 3 and prior to school entry
• School Age (6 to 19 years): Every one to two years
• Adult (20 to 64 years): Every two years
• Older Adult (65 to 69 years): Every one to two years
• Seniors (70 years and older): Annually

If there is a health concern you may be advised to seek regular care at shorter intervals (eg. diabetics are advised to have an annual dilated examination).

If you have red, sore eyes, you should see your family optometrist.

Redness, pain, discharge, or blurry vision can all be signs of infection or inflammation of the eyes. The earlier any treatment is started, the better the result.

Our doctors have the clinical training, equipment, and experience needed to examine and diagnose many eye diseases. Any conditions requiring more advanced treatment will be referred, but we can provide care in many cases.

In Canada, there are now three provinces (Alberta, New Brunswick, Saskatchewan) and one territory (Yukon) where certified optometrists can prescribe topical medications to treat eye diseases, and remove foreign bodies from the eye. Although there may be slight variations between these provinces, it is now possible to see your optometrist for the treatment of common eye infections, inflammations,and allergic eye conditions.

So, don't delay if you suspect you have an eye problem. See your family optometrist as soon as possible.

Treatment services by optometrists are currently not covered by medicare. Private health insurance may provide some coverage.

Starting in the fall of 2005, Miramichi Optometry Clinic has adopted a policy of direct billing of health care providers whenever possible. We will direct bill any insurance company on your behalf that will allow this. Bring your health card to your exam and ask for more information.

When the subject of having laser surgery to decrease dependency on glasses or contact lenses comes up, the most commonly asked question is "am I a candidate?"  While many factors contribute to the answer, knowing the thickness of the front layer of the eye is a necessity since this is the part which will receive the laser treatment.  Pachymetry is the measure of corneal thickness.  We are pleased to now offer this assessment at our clinic using our newly purchased pachymeter.  Prior to having our own instrument, this assessment would have had to be done at the closest laser center (TLC Moncton).

Since September 2000, most patients presenting for a regular examination have been administered this new test as part of their complete examination. Designed to screen for the presence of glaucoma or neurological disease, the FDT enables the doctors to evaluate how well the visual system relays information from the eyes to the visual cortex, an area of the brain at the back of the head. The nerves transmitting vision leave the back of the eyes and travel through large areas of the brain to reach the visual cortex. The FDT produces a picture of how well the patient sees (central and side vision). Any interference with the transmission of information along this nerve pathway will produce missing or irregular areas in the test results. Should a problem be detected, further testing may be required.

Since 1989 our clinic has offered visual field testing to our patients as an auxiliary procedure.

The test involves an automated presentation of lights to an individual eye. The minimum light level detected by the patient for each presented point is used to assess the health of the visual pathway, from the eye to the back of the head (visual cortex).

Visual field analysis is one of the tests required for the diagnosis and ongoing treatment management of glaucoma. It is also useful in the diagnosis of neurological disorders.

Patients at high risk of glaucoma, having neurological signs, or unusual symptoms will benefit from such testing.

In October we replaced our model 640 Humphrey with a top of the line 750 model. This is newer version of the same machine used by the ophthalmology department at Region 7 Hospital.

The Humphrey® Field Analyzer II is the recognized standard of care for early diagnosis, treatment and management of diseases resulting in visual field loss, most commonly glaucoma. The new machine employs a testing method called SITA™, which adds speed while maintaining reliable visual field test results. The statistical software, called STATPAC™ for SITA, improves diagnostic precision by utilizing the largest, worldwide normative database in perimetry.

The end result of this upgrade is a faster and more accurate test for our patients. Uniformity with the hospital's machine allows easier comparison of tests by a specialist for those cases where a referral is necessary.

The HFA 750, in combination with our FDT field screening at every routine adult examination, will allow us to provide the highest standard of care possible for diseases causing visual field loss.

Starting in May 1999, our office has made corneal topography available to our patients, using a "Keratron" model corneal topographer.

This instrument creates an image of the front surface of the eye (the cornea). Measuring more than 20,000 points, it produces a topographical map of the cornea showing the many subtle curves and elevations.

Corneal topography is a new technology which has many applications. Mapping the cornea makes the fitting of gas-permeable contact lenses more precise by providing exact measurements over a greater area than traditional keratometry. Patients considering laser refractive eye surgery require topography to determine the shape of their corneas, as this is the tissue which is reshaped during the procedure. The topography can be used to detect any warping or irregularities which would be a contra-indication to surgery. Topography can also be used to monitor corneal stability in a variety of conditions.

Laser refractive surgery is a procedure to eliminate or reduce nearsightedness and astigmatism and now hyperopia. The two most common procedures are LASIK and PRK.

Quick information about laser refractive surgery:

Canadian surgeons are leaders in laser surgery. The first PRK procedure on a human eye took place in 1989. Overall 95% to 98% of patients receive at least 20/40 vision, meaning you could drive legally or play sports without glasses.

The vast majority of patients who have gone through laser corrective surgery have been successful, but it is important to choose a laser center with experienced surgeons, cutting edge technology, and good follow-up care. The goal is to reduce one’s dependence on spectacles. In some cases glasses or contact lenses are required for occasional use. Our doctors can discuss the details of the procedure with you, and review the risks involved.

To be a candidate you must meet the following requirements:

Be at least 18 years old.

Have a stable prescription for 1 year.

Be free of diseases of the eye.

Have realistic expectations about the procedure.

Understand the risks of surgery, and any possible complications.

Our office is an affiliate of the TLC laser clinic in Moncton, New Brunswick. Our doctors provide both pre and post-operative care for our patients.

For some patients’ with severely reduced vision, “stronger” glasses may not improve what they see. For example patients’ with age-related macular degeneration (ARMD) have a blurry spot in the center of their vision. A person with retinitis pigmentosa will have loss of their side vision resulting in tunnel vision.

Visual impairment can range from no light perception to reduced form or detail perception.

During a low vision assessment the doctor tries to evaluate what functional vision remains and how magnification can assist the patient. In some cases a technical aid may be of help. These aids can range from a simple hand magnifier to a telescopic device for viewing objects or a magnifying button mounted on glasses for near vision.

In the world of technical aids new innovations are being developed at a rapid pace. There are now highly sophisticated devices such as closed circuit televisions which magnify print up to 60 X, or synthetic speech systems for computers.

This office works closely with the Canadian National Institute for the Blind (CNIB) to coordinate services and provide access to the CNIB technology coordinator. Services are available to both blind and visually impaired persons.

The doctors can assist patients with registration for CNIB services. If necessary they will complete a special tax form required for a disability deduction for individuals with eye conditions which substantially affect their activities of daily living.

It is important to make the most of whatever vision you have. Your optometrist can discuss what options may be of assistance.

For more information visit the CNIB.

We provide high quality lenses and frames priced to fit any budget.

Eyeglass frames are now available in many designer lines. The use of eyeglasses as a fashion accessory is becoming more common. Our office stays on top of current fashion trends by offering most designer lines. We also offer many quality frames for the budget-minded.

New developments in progressive addition lenses (no-line bifocals) and anti-reflective or scratch-resistant coatings are now available. We use the best products currently available.

Come in and speak to our assistants. They will discuss all your options to ensure you receive the best eyeglasses to meet your needs.

The latest contact lens technology has produced many new lens options. It is now possible to fit many people who previously could not wear contacts.

Soft contacts are now available in many replacement schedules (disposable), ranging from 1-day to quarterly. Planned replacement of contact lenses helps decrease the frequency of complications (often related to re-use of old, soiled contacts).

Patients with large amounts of astigmatism can be fit with gas-permeable rigid contacts, and in some cases specialty toric soft contacts.

Bifocal wearers have options ranging from bifocal contacts to monovision.

Due to advances in oxygen transmission, the newest materials allow patients to sleep in contacts (called extended wear).

For those wanting something a bit different for Halloween, check out "Crazy Eyes" or "Wild Eyes".

Our doctors have the experience and expertise to determine which contact lens will work best for your individual needs. They will provide you with the best option for vision, comfort, and eye health.

Our clinic carries bulk packs of the most commonly used contact lens cleaning & soaking solutions. These bulk packs generally represent a 6 month supply.

Also included is a spare case(s). Many eye infections can be traced to the use of an old case. Regular periodic replacement decreases the risk of infection.

Compare the per milliliter cost. Our bulk packs are generally less expensive than most regular day pricing elsewhere.

When you pick up your next supply of disposable contacts, why not save an extra trip and get everything you need in one stop?

Looking for a new pair of non-prescription sunglasses? Take a look at our selection.

Competitively priced, sunglasses are now available in a wide range of designer frames and lenses.

Need to wear prescription glasses? Some models can be used to hold prescription lenses, or come with prescription adapters. You get the look you want and still see clearly.

Sun glass "clips" are popular with prescription eyeglass wearers. These sunglasses attach to the users frame with hooks or magnets without scratching the lenses. Many are available for specific frames. Others may fit similar models. If all else fails, we can have one custom made for most frames.

Transitions photochromic plastic lenses are another popular way of having prescription sunglasses. Designed to darken with exposure to sunlight, they offer an all-in-one solution.

For sports-minded individuals, we have a selection of sports frames for prescription use, including swimming goggles. Having proper eye protection for your sport is as important as other pieces of equipment.

Most lens finishing work for the manufacture of glasses has been performed on the premises of our clinic since a laboratory was first installed by Dr. Prince in 1978. Our laboratory is located on the lower level of the clinic, away from the flow of patients. As a result, patients may not be aware we provide on-site lab work.

Our current edging system, purchased in October 1999, is a pattern-less Topcon model ALE-X1 3D+, coupled with a former-less 3D+ automated frame tracer, Topcon model FR-20. Highly computerized, the ALE-X1 is capable of edging plastic, glass, or poly-carbonate lenses, and performing a diamond luster finish for both flat or beveled edges. We also have more control over the placement and quality of the bevel than previous equipment.

The FR-20 performs a precise three-dimensional tracing of the inside edge of the frame, and transfers the shape to the ALE-X1 to ensure an accurate cut of the patient's lenses. Formers (plastic patterns unique to each frame model) are no longer required.

Having our own facility allows us to have more direct control over the quality of the workmanship. Fast turn around is available for those patents with lost or broken glasses. Single vision lenses can be cut within an hour*. Patients wishing to re-use their own frame have new lenses custom-cut while they wait. Tinting of old lenses is an available option, although certain conditions may affect the process.

*Note: bifocal lenses take longer due to being custom made.

Are you wearing safety glasses that meet the CSA standard? Or are you wearing "dress-wear" glasses? Do you know the difference? Can you verify which one you have? How do you know it meets the standard? Do you know which class of protector is appropriate for the hazard you are exposed to?

The Canadian Standards Association (CSA) periodically upgrades its published standard of what constitutes safety glasses. The current standard is CAN/CSA International-Z94.3-92 Industrial Eye and Face Protectors (published December 1992). For more information, visit the CSA.

Our clinic offers safety eye-wear that meets the CSA safety standard. This eye-wear is available to individuals, or to company employees through the regionally-based Occupational Vision Care (OVC) program.

For more information about OVC, visit the Eye Protection & Safety section at the NBAO. Or, contact:

Mr. Ed McRae
Consultant, Occupational Vision Care Program
New Brunswick Association of Optometrists
Phone: (902) 392-2455
Fax: (902)392-2457
Email: