Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

I am a new patient. Can I make an appointment myself?

Œil Santé MD is Montreal’s advanced eye care clinic for specific complex conditions and so new clients are seen only by referral from another doctor (either a medical doctor or an optometrist). Some conditions require a follow-up with regular family doctor or optometrist; therefore it is necessary that we work closely with them to ensure your best care.

What should I bring to my appointment?

Please bring the following to your appointment:

  • Your Quebec Health Insurance card
  • Prescription glasses (if you have any)
  • A list of any medications or eye drops you are using
  • Sunglasses (for most visits we will use eyedrops to dilate your pupils and these take a few hours to wear off, during which you will be sensitive to bright light)

For new patients, please bring any records of previous eye examinations or treatments if done elsewhere. This is especially important if you have been treated for any eye condition previously.

 

At what age should I start having annual eye exams?

Everyone should have an annual eye exam. Not only is it the first step to maintaining good eye health and lifelong vision, but an eye exam can sometimes also spot other health conditions.

What is the difference between an Ophthalmologist and an Optometrist?

An Ophthalmologist is a Doctor (MD) who also has specialty training after medical school in eye surgery and conditions of the eye. An Optometrist (OD) has has completed a four year University program which deals with conditions of the eye. Most Œil Santé MD doctors are Ophthalmologists and also perform surgical and medical procedures.

Ophthalmologists are eye specialists who are also Medical Doctors (MD). After completing their medical degree, an ophthalmologist goes on to specialize in the advanced treatment, surgery, and care of the eyes and visual system.

Œil Santé MD has experienced ophthalmologists. Ophthalmologists are certified to perform many types of eye surgery and typically perform the following procedures and surgeries: Cataract Surgery, Corneal Transplant, Retinal Detachment Surgery, Glaucoma Treatment, and Vitrectomy.

Optometrists or Doctors of Optometry (OD) are trained to conduct eye examinations. They can also diagnose and treat some common vision conditions such as nearsightedness, farsightedness, astigmatism and presbyopia.

Opticians are eye health professionals who specialize in providing corrective eyewear. An optician interprets and fills eye prescriptions for glasses or contact lenses, while helping to select, fit, repair, or adjust frames or glasses.

What forms of payment do you accept?

We accept Visa, MasterCard, debit card or cash. We do NOT accept payments by cheque or American Express.

Is surgery done in the Œil Santé MD building?

Some procedures are done right in the clinic such as intravitreal injections and laser treatments. Most eye surgeries are done at hospitals where our doctors are also on staff.

I'm from out of province. Can I be seen at Œil Santé MD?

Yes, we accept patients from other provinces as long as they show us their provincial health insurance card with a valid expiry date.